• Table of Contents

  • How to Harden Your Home Against Burglars
  • The Importance of Home Hardening
  • Practical Tips for Home Hardening
  • 1. Install a Home Security System
  • 2. Secure Your Doors and Windows
  • 3. Use Outdoor Lighting
  • 4. Keep Your Yard Tidy
  • 5. Get a Dog
  • 6. Be Mindful of Social Media
  • Question: How much can home hardening save you on insurance premiums?
  • Conclusion

How to Harden Your Home Against Burglars

Burglary is a crime that can happen to anyone, regardless of where you live or how much money you have. In fact, according to the FBI, there were an estimated 1.2 million burglaries in the United States in 2019 alone. That’s one burglary every 25.7 seconds. And while the thought of someone breaking into your home and stealing your belongings is terrifying, there are steps you can take to protect your home and your family. One of the most effective ways to do this is by hardening your home against burglars. In this article, we’ll discuss what home hardening is, why it’s important, and provide you with practical tips on how to make your home less vulnerable to burglars.

The Importance of Home Hardening

Home hardening is the process of making your home more difficult to break into. It involves taking proactive measures to secure your home and deter potential burglars. By making your home less vulnerable, you not only protect your belongings but also your loved ones. Burglars are more likely to target homes that are easy to break into, so by hardening your home, you decrease the chances of becoming a victim of burglary.

Additionally, home hardening can also save you money in the long run. Many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who have taken steps to secure their homes. By investing in home hardening, you not only protect your home and family but also save money on your insurance premiums.

Practical Tips for Home Hardening

Now that we understand the importance of home hardening, let’s discuss some practical tips on how to make your home less vulnerable to burglars.

1. Install a Home Security System

One of the most effective ways to harden your home against burglars is by installing a home security system. These systems come with various features such as motion sensors, door and window sensors, and cameras. They can also be connected to your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your home even when you’re away. The presence of a security system alone is often enough to deter burglars from targeting your home.

2. Secure Your Doors and Windows

Doors and windows are the most common entry points for burglars. Therefore, it’s crucial to make sure they are secure. Install deadbolt locks on all exterior doors and make sure they are made of solid wood or metal. For added security, you can also install a door reinforcement kit. For windows, consider installing window locks or reinforcing them with shatter-resistant film.

3. Use Outdoor Lighting

Darkness provides cover for burglars, making it easier for them to break into your home unnoticed. By installing outdoor lighting, you eliminate this cover and make it more difficult for burglars to approach your home undetected. Motion-activated lights are a great option as they turn on when someone approaches, alerting you and your neighbors of any suspicious activity.

4. Keep Your Yard Tidy

A cluttered yard can provide hiding spots for burglars. Keep your yard tidy and well-maintained to eliminate these hiding spots. Additionally, make sure to trim any bushes or trees near your home that could provide cover for burglars.

5. Get a Dog

Dogs are not only great companions, but they can also serve as a deterrent to burglars. Burglars are less likely to target a home with a dog, as they can be noisy and alert their owners of any suspicious activity. Even a small dog can be effective in deterring burglars.

6. Be Mindful of Social Media

In today’s digital age, it’s common for people to share their whereabouts on social media. However, this can also make your home vulnerable to burglars. Avoid posting about your vacation plans or when you’ll be away from home for an extended period. This information can be used by burglars to target your home.

Question: How much can home hardening save you on insurance premiums?

According to a study by the Insurance Information Institute, homeowners can save up to 20% on their insurance premiums by investing in home hardening measures. This can result in significant savings over time, making home hardening a worthwhile investment.

Conclusion

Burglary is a crime that can happen to anyone, but by taking proactive measures to harden your home, you can decrease the chances of becoming a victim. Install a home security system, secure your doors and windows, use outdoor lighting, keep your yard tidy, get a dog, and be mindful of what you share on social media. By following these tips, you not only protect your home and family but also save money on insurance premiums. Remember, a little effort in home hardening can go a long way in keeping your home safe and secure.