It is almost impossible to understand just how upsetting a break-in is until you experience one in your own home. Discovering that someone has violated your space can leave you feeling vulnerable. On top of that, you have to deal with the frustration of filing an insurance claim, talking to the police, and making any necessary repairs. Oftentimes, the items that are stolen are completely irreplaceable. That is why it is so essential to consider installing a security system.

In the past, there were relatively few choices in terms of home security. Typically, the only option was to hire a local company to install a system in your home. Once the system was in place, you had to pay for ongoing monitoring. Today, however, there are a lot of options available that are just as effective but cost a lot less.

Installing a security system is one of the best ways to deter thieves. In addition, you can also try taking some of the following steps to make your property as unattractive as possible to potential burglars:

1. Create A Sense of Community In Your Neighborhood

One way to keep burglars away is by creating a vibrant neighborhood community. People are less likely to target homes in areas where neighbors look out for one another. If would-be thieves see people out doing yard work, talking to each other over their fences, or sitting out on their porches, they are less likely to target houses in that neighborhood since they know that the neighbors are watching out for one another. If you make friends with your neighbors, you can also ask them to watch your property if you have to leave for a few days.

You may even want to think about starting a Neighborhood Watch program if there isn’t one already in place in your area.

2. Put up Security Cameras

Burglars are always on the lookout for security cameras when they are getting ready to break into a home. In fact, researchers at the Alarm Industry Research and Educational Foundation (AIREF) discovered that more than half of all burglars considered whether or not there were cameras in place when deciding which properties to target.

3. Keep Your Windows And Doors Closed 

Burglars are always on the lookout for easy targets. If you leave your windows or doors open or unlocked, they can simply step inside. Make it as hard as possible for them to get in by always keeping your doors and windows locked. Even if you are just running out for a few minutes, be sure to lock the door behind you.

4. Make Sure Your Door Is Secure

Even if your door is locked, it may not be strong enough to keep a determined thief out of your home. Check your door to see how strong it is. Begin by checking the strike plate to see how long the screws are. If they are too short, consider using longer ones instead. You can also purchase kits that are designed to reinforce the door jam with the use of metal plates. If you are really serious about keeping your home secure, consider investing in a security screen door, as well.

5. Think About Adopting A Dog 

Having a dog of any size is a good way to deter thieves. Even if the dog is extremely small, burglars will usually avoid breaking in, simply because barking dogs attract too much attention.

6. Stay Alert During Daytime Hours

There is a common myth that break-ins only happen after dark. In fact, however, they commonly take place during the middle of the day since that is when most people are away from home working or going to school. You can prevent daytime break-ins by locking your doors and windows before you leave. Installing a security system is also a good way to keep tabs on your property when no one is home.

7. Light Up The Outside Of Your Home

If the outside of your home is extremely dark at night, it provides a lot of potential hiding places for burglars. You can minimize this problem by using solar-powered lights to brighten up dark spaces. Consider installing motion-activated lights in areas where burglars may try to access your home. Lighting up your driveway is also a good idea since it discourages thieves from breaking into your car.

8. Make It Look Like Someone Is Home

Even if you are away from home, you can make it look like someone is inside your property by using timers to control everything from your lights to your television. This step is especially important if you are going to be gone for a significant period of time. Today’s homes often have smart features that make it easy to control features like your interior lights when you are not at home.

9. Have Someone Bring In Your Mail

If you are headed out of town, arrange for a house sitter or neighbor to grab your mail each day. That way, it won’t pile up. Alternatively, you can also put a hold on your mail until you return. If you are expecting any packages, contact the delivery company to have them held until after you return home. If that doesn’t work, arrange for a neighbor to pick up any packages for you so that they don’t sit out on your porch.

With just a few simple steps, you can make your home much safer and more secure. A little bit of preparation goes a long way toward helping you feel comfortable and well-protected in your home.