According to the FBI, there were 7,196,045 property crime offenses in the U.S. in 2019. Forget Halloween. One of the scariest things that can happen any season is that you or your family are the victims of a crime. Here are 5 Ways to Prevent Property Crimes, from trustedchoice.com.
1. Lock it up!
Think about locking more than just your front door. Experts remind us to lock fence gates, garages, garden sheds, and windows when you’re not around. Thieves can gain access to your back yard through open side gates, thus allowing them to operate out of the view of your neighbors. Many of us keep valuable items like tools and bicycles in our garden sheds or garages.
2. Light it Up!
Keep your home’s exterior illuminated with motion sensor lighting. It’s easy to install and is an unbeatable deterrent. Thieves are more attracted to dark properties that allow them to move about unseen. Motion sensor lights will only activate with movement and don’t need to stay on all night. Install the lights high and out of reach to prevent a thief from unscrewing the bulb.
3. Give Your Trash a Second Thought
It’s true. Our trash says a lot about us. Many of us don’t think twice about setting empty boxes at the curb for recycling or trash pick up. However, these boxes are a perfect, colorful advertisement for what you just purchased. Placing these boxes in front of your home makes you a target for thieves, especially those in search of new electronics. Instead, break down those boxes and fold them up into your recycle bin, or bag them up before disposing of them.
4. Keep Your Yard Tidy
Overgrown shrubs and bushes give thieves the perfect hiding place, especially at night. Keep hedges cut back so that most of your front yard can be seen from several angles. A tidy yard will also give thieves the indication that your home is occupied and active.
5. Install a Security System
Security systems come in all shapes and sizes, depending upon how elaborate you want to get. A basic system will sound an alarm when a point of entry is breached. Higher-end systems allow you to surveil from afar on your tablet or smartphone. Some systems will alert your local police. Even window decals and small yard signs can deter criminals.
These 5 Ways to Prevent Property Crimes are just a few ideas to help you be aware of the simple steps you can take to protect your property. You worked hard for that new television. Make sure it stays just where you left it.