Residential burglars rob people not only of their tangible possessions but also their peace of mind and sense of feeling secure in their own homes. Throughout the United States in 2012, the Federal Bureau of Investigation estimated there were about 1.6 million burglaries. Of those incidents, more than 65 percent occurred during day hours. This is because many people are usually away from home during the day on weekdays. With proper theft prevention strategies and devices, Americans can lower the likelihood of being victimized in a home burglary. There are several loss control methods that will help reduce the chances of being a victim of a home burglary.
Keep the property well lit. Keeping plenty of lights on at night is a safe way to deter would-be burglars. It is good to leave one or two lights on in the house and install a motion-sensor light on larger areas such as back and front yards. People who plan to leave lights on all night without motion sensors may consider investing in timers.
Ask a neighbor to watch the property. When away from home during the day, ask a neighbor to check on the property frequently. Also, ask neighbors to clear newspapers and fliers away from fences and walkways while on vacation. Burglars who see these things piled up will know that nobody is home.
Central Burglar Alarm
Purchase a burglar alarm with a central monitoring station. Experts say that homes lacking burglar alarms are three times as likely to be break-in targets as homes with alarms. When a burglar knows a home has an alarm, he or she is less likely to attempt to break in. Putting signs and stickers in visible places is an effective way to alert trespassers that the home is secure. Most companies offering monitoring services for burglar alarms also provide stickers or signs.
Use property identification programs. These programs are designed to protect expensive personal effects. Stereos, computers, televisions, and other items can be imprinted with the owner’s driving license number. This makes it hard for criminals to sell the items, which will register as stolen. They will be unable to pawn the property, and the identification system makes it more likely that stolen property will be recovered.
Reinforce Windows
Reinforce windows and doors. Experts say that any exterior doors should be thick and made of solid wood or metal. Composite material is also acceptable if it is solid. It is better to put three-inch screws on strike plates, because the standard ones are only a fraction of that size. Smaller screws will make the strike plate come loose easier if the door is kicked hard. All doors should have deadbolt locks, and there should be a throw of at least one inch as well as reinforced strike plates.
Also, it is smart to keep the garage door locked and secure even while at home. Many people leave their garage doors wide open, and not all burglars will target only locked homes. It is smart to leave doors locked while at home. Burglars will often come through open doors and gates. They may or may not assume someone is home. Since some are armed, it is better to avoid such confrontations. Safety should always be paramount for every family. To learn more about these issues, insurance for high-end items or changing a policy, discuss concerns with an agent.
Finally
If you want to discuss options for homeowners’ insurance, please call us at 561-732-9305 our quoting hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. In addition, you can request a quote online. Please remember, We Handle All the Work, While You Save!
Robert Macoviak is the President of Oyer, Macoviak and Associates. Oyer, Macoviak and Associates is the oldest independent insurance agency in Boynton Beach and has been in business since 1953. Oyer, Macoviak and Associates are vested members of the community who are committed to doing business face-to-face and being your insurance advocate in times of need.
