Are You Making These Home Security Mistakes?

Don’t let your household fall victim to a burglary! Statistics show that thieves break into around three homes each hour in Victoria. Burglars tend to be opportunistic, so there are many precautions that you can take and security features that you can install to lower the chances of your home being targeted. Some easy steps to take include installing a quality security door and lighting in your front entranceway, but there are also many pitfalls to avoid in order to ensure your home isn’t an easy target for a thief.

It’s easy to get cavalier about home security and to think that, “it won’t happen to me,” when it comes to home break-ins. The truth is that roughly 1 in 5 Australian homes will be burgled at some point. It’s important to have a discussion with your household about what home security rules everyone should be following, whether everyone knows how to use any locks or security devices in place and what to do in an emergency situation. There are many mistakes that households make when it comes to home security and experienced burglars are aware of this and will take advantage of homes that aren’t properly protected. So, what common home security mistakes should you look out for?

#1 Leaving doors unlocked or leaving a spare key in an obvious location

This is an easy mistake to make and an important one to avoid! If your door is unlocked, your home will be a very easy target for a thief. You might have the most advanced security door in the world, but if it isn’t properly locked it won’t be able to protect you or your home. Likewise, if you leave your spare key under the doormat, or under a plant pot on your porch, or in a similarly obvious location near the front door, your home will not be protected and an experienced thief will be able to find the key easily and gain access to your property. Always remember to check rear doors, side doors, and garages are properly locked and secured.

#2 Leaving valuables out where they can be seen

Don’t tempt a burglar by leaving valuable items where they can be easily seen, especially if you’re not going to be home. It’s useful to be in the habit of closing blinds or curtains in front rooms, particularly if you’re not at home, to stop thieves being able to see into your home to see easily grabbable valuables, such as cash, electronic devices, or jewelry, as well as allowing an intruder to assess any security measures in place.

#3 Making it obvious that you’re not at home

One of the most common mistakes that households make when it comes to attracting a burglar is making it obvious that there isn’t anyone at home. This is particularly important if you’re going away on a holiday and your home will be uninhabited for an extended period of time. Take the time to notify a trusted neighbor that you’re going away and arrange for your mail and bins to be collected, make sure you mow your lawn before you leave, and check any security devices are charged and in working order. Don’t share your holiday plans with strangers or shout instructions while you pack your car with suitcases.

#4 Relying on a flyscreen door for security

Think your flyscreen will protect you from an intruder? Think again. It’s a huge mistake to rely on flyscreens to protect your household from anything other than flies and insects. A quality security door should comply with Australian Standards guidelines and be designed to withstand forced entry attempts. By contrast, fly screens will warp, tear or break even with gentle usage and provide no obstacle to a thief, even without tools.

#5 Not turning the porch lights on

Thieves prefer not to risk being seen, so if your entranceway is lit up it is far riskier for a thief and they are less likely to choose your home to break into. Make sure your porch light is always on at night.

Click here for more information about Jim’s Security Doors. Or for expert advice on security doors to suit your home, please contact our friendly and experienced sales team on 13 15 46.