About 25% of US homes use advanced security like cameras and strong locks. But even with these, a lot of houses are still broken into each year. If you want to keep your home safer, there are more things you can do. Our locksmiths have some great tips for you.
Key Takeaways
- Only about 25% of US homes have robust security systems in place
- Over 40% of break-ins occur without force, indicating lock vulnerabilities
- Securing doors, windows, and garages is crucial to deter burglars
- Smart security systems with remote control capabilities offer added peace of mind
- Proper key management and hiding spots can help prevent unauthorized access
The Importance of Home Security
Your home is as important as your family and friends. It’s vital to protect it and the people inside. Today, crime and home burglaries are increasing. So, it’s crucial to find new ways to keep your home safe. A professional residential locksmith can help greatly. They enhance security and scare off potential burglars.
Startling Burglary Statistics
Each year in the United States, about 3.7 million burglaries happen. Shockingly, nearly one million of them involve someone being home. These stats show just how crucial it is to make your home secure.
The Role of a Residential Locksmith
Residential locksmiths provide many security services for homes. This includes installing and repairing locks. They are also skilled in key duplication and can help in emergencies. They know about smart lock technology, giving you better control over your home’s security. When choosing a locksmith, pick one who is licensed and known for their skill. This ensures you get security solutions that meet your exact needs.
Securing Your Doors and Windows
One major step in preventing break-ins is to check your doors and windows. These are where intruders usually try to get in. You can make your home safer by strengthening these areas.
Reinforcing Sliding Doors and Windows
If your sliding doors and windows aren’t secure, do this. Use a strong dowel or rod on their backtracks. This makes them harder to open from the outside. A two-by-four or steel bar can work too. Slide it into the back groove to keep the door shut. Put a pin or nail in the window sash too. This stops the window from opening too far. For wooden frames, drill holes at a good height above the sash. Then, insert a metal pin or nail into these holes.
Installing High-Security Locks
Putting deadbolt or high-security locks on outside doors is important. These locks are much harder to break into. They make it tougher for burglars to enter your home. So, using strong locks keeps your doors more secure. It stops thieves from easily breaking in.
Key Management and Hiding Spots
It’s smart to avoid leaving your spare keys near your home. This includes not under the doormat or in a flower pot. Although you might think this is a clever spot, burglars easily find them. This means they could get into your home without any trouble.
Avoiding Common Hiding Places
Many people hide keys under the doormat, but this is the first place burglars look. Putting them in the mailbox is also risky because it’s checked early by someone trying to break in. Thieves know to search common areas like fake rocks or above doors. So, you should find better, less obvious ways to hide your keys.
Using Lockboxes and Trusted Neighbors
A good idea is a secure lockbox with a secret code. This way, you can put your spare key outside safely. Another option is to trust a neighbor or friend with a spare key. This is much safer than the usual hiding spots. Plus, it helps keep your home secure.
Hiding keys in places like in decorations or near meters is risky. For better safety, use secure storage or lockboxes outdoors. Avoiding the usual spots can make a big difference in preventing burglary. It’s important to think smart about where you hide your keys for the sake of your home’s safety.
Residential Locksmith Services
Many people only look for a professional locksmith in an emergency. It’s best to find a reliable one before you actually need them. A great option is The Original Locksmith. We serve the local area with various security solutions.
Lock Installation and Repair
The Original Locksmith excels in installing and fixing locks. They ensure that your home remains secure. Their team can replace old or broken locks. They can also set up the newest security systems with skill.
Rekeying and High-Security Upgrades
If you want better home protection, consider rekeying or high-security locks. Rekeying your locks makes it hard for anyone with an old key to get in. This saves the cost of buying new locks. The company is also adept at installing advanced security locks.
Emergency Lockout Assistance
Lockouts can happen at any hour, and The Original Locksmith is ready to help. They offer 24/7 emergency services. Whether it’s your home or car, they’ll get you back in quickly and professionally. They aim for a 30-minute response time to ensure your security.
Making Your Home Less Appealing to Burglars
To keep burglars away, removing hiding spots near your door is vital. Cut down any large bushes or get rid of sheds that could hide intruders. This way, your home won’t look like an easy target for them.
Trimming Bushes and Eliminating Hiding Spots
Always keep bushes, trees, and plants near your door short. This makes it hard for burglars to sneak up to your house. Don’t put up tall fences that hide parts of your yard, either. Open areas make it easier for you to see if someone unwanted is around.
Installing Exterior Lighting and Security Signage
Bright lights outside can scare off thieves. Use lights that turn on if they sense movement. This lights up dark areas and could surprise anyone trying to sneak in.
Put up signs too, like “Beware of Dog,” or “Neighborhood Watch”. This warns burglars that there are eyes on your home all the time.
FAQ
What percentage of US homes rely on electronic security systems, reinforced glass, advanced locks, and nonstop surveillance?
Sadly, only about a quarter of US homes use these strong security tools.
How many home burglaries occur each year in the US?
Each year, there are an estimated 3.7 million burglaries in the US. In about one million of these cases, someone was home.
They became victims of violent crimes.
Why is hiring a professional residential locksmith crucial?
It’s key because they help boost your home’s security. They make it harder for burglars to get in.
How can I reinforce my sliding doors and windows?
To make them stronger, use a dowel or rod in the door’s track. Or try a two-by-four in the groove.
What is a good way to secure my window frames?
For wood frames, drill a hole right where the top and bottom meet. Put a tough metal pin or nail in there.
Where should I avoid hiding my spare keys?
Don’t hide keys under the doormat or a nearby flower pot. These are the first places burglars look.
What is a better solution for hiding a spare key?
It’s better to use a magnetic lockbox in a hidden place outside. Or trust a neighbor or friend with your spare key.
What services does The Original Locksmith provide?
They offer many locksmith services, including lock repair and replacement. They also do rekeying and install high-security and keypad locks.
They work 24/7 for emergency locksmith needs.
How can I make my home less appealing to burglars?
Cut back bushes and other hiding spots near your home’s entrances. Add motion-sensor lights and security signs to scare off burglars.
