We all like to feel safe in our homes, but are we truly safe or making ourselves easy targets for burglars? The FBI estimates there is a break-in every 15 seconds in this country, and the average loss from these intrusions is $1,300. Mike Hackett, president and CEO of Hackett Securities in Ladue, says there is a list of places where many households are vulnerable to break-ins. The good news is that there are some easy ways to secure these soft spots you can do today.
1. Windows — Secure all windows of your house at all times. This includes the upper floors. If there's a way to reach the windows, there's a way to get in. Also, closed, non-transparent curtains can keep a robber from seeing what's inside. This could mean the difference between a break-in and being bypassed.
2. Hidden Keys — Don't use them. It's like creating a neon sign for robbers. "Burglars know that your little bunny in the garden by the door has a key hidden underneath," says Mr. Hackett. A keyless entry pad on a door or garage door is an easy alternative.
3. Backyard — This is any thief's haven, so it should be given extra care and attention. "We have a golden rule at Hackett Security," says Mr. Hackett. "Most burglars like to be down low, around back and out of sight." Creating a lack of hiding places and installing motion-activated floodlights will blow any robber's potential cover.
4. Vacations — Sure, you have your neighbors get your mail and pick up your newspapers so it looks like you're home — and you should. But leaving "we're not home" notes for delivery people, not cutting your lawn and even having lights off for days at a time are all inviting a break-in. A well lit home and even a radio playing inside will give a criminal second thoughts.
5. Garage Doors — These should be treated as any other door and should constantly be locked. This means if you have an older garage door, it should be manually locked. If it is newer, try disabling the electronic door opener so you know it isn't opening for anyone.
6. Front and Back Doors — "About 80 percent of the time, when someone's breaking into a home, they're gong to come through a door," says Mr. Hackett. It seems obvious, but installing a peephole in your front door is a simple way to see who's knocking or just to check on a noise. Also, enforcing your door with metal bracing will keep the average robber from kicking it down — frame and all.
7. Locks — Installing multiple locks will slow a robber down, if not stop the person completely. There are different levels of security you can take this step. In any case Mr. Hackett recommends using locks and bolts that have the Underwriter's Laboratory Seal. It's a high standard he says everyone should adhere to when it comes to home security.
8. Home Security Systems — "Homes that don't have an alarm system are three times more likely to be broken into than one that does," says Mr. Hackett. Those who do own one should be sure to keep it activated at all times. Remember, the signs for your lawn provided by your system provider can be enough to keep intruders at bay (hint to those who can't afford a system!).
9. French Doors — Although they are beautiful, French doors are an easy in for burglars. Many models can be opened with a good push, even when they're locked. Installing slide-rod locks at the top and bottom secure the doors to the frame and make them just as difficult to open as any other windowed door.
10. No Backup — "Your neighbors are your best helpers out there," says Mr. Hackett. "They can be aware of unusual, or usual, behavior, and they can report it." Establish a good rapport with your neighbors, let them know when you're out of town or better yet establish a neighborhood watch group in your area.
