How To Keep Your Home Safe From Thieves:
It has been reported that in the U.S., a home is robbed every 14.6 seconds. The average loss is just a little over $2,000. So, if you have a $1,000 deductible on your homeowner’s insurance policy, only half of your loss would be covered.
Here are some strategies for keeping your home safe from would-be thieves:
Tear up cardboard boxes – There’s no better way for thieves to see that you just bought a new TV, computer, microwave, than by the empty box that is left alongside the trash containers. Tear/cut them up and bundle them so they are inconspicuous.
Lock doors and windows – It may seem obvious, but most thieves gain access through open doors and windows that someone forgot to lock.
Don’t hide your keys in the obvious places – Thieves look for the “fake rock.” The ledge above the door. The door mat. Consider leaving it with a neighbor, or in a less conspicuous location.
Don’t announce your plans on social network sites – While you may be excited to share your vacation plans (or a trip out of town for a wedding or funeral), don’t announce the dates you will be leaving and returning. Wait till you return to post your pictures.
Do a little landscaping – Cut back bushes and trees hiding windows and doors, which may also hide a thief from view.
Replace light bulbs – Another obvious strategy, but a well-lighted house will thwart thefts.
Close drapes/blinds – Giving someone a clear view of what you have inside can be trouble. Even if you are leaving your home for a short period of time, close the drapes or blinds so thieves can’t see what you own.
Just a little prevention can save you money, as well as the heartache of someone violating your private space.