Most of us picture break-ins as a dramatic movie scene of shattered glass, a kicked in door, or some other type of noisy occurrence. Truthfully, burglars rarely make themselves known with a dramatic entrance. Seasoned criminals want to enter your home quietly, by a less-visible entry point that even you, the homeowner, may not even have given any thought. During National Crime Prevention Month, let’s take a closer look at your home’s hidden vulnerabilities so you can close off those vulnerable entry points before a burglar discovers them.
Side and Back Doors
Some of the most common entry points for burglars because they’re often hidden from street view. Reinforce these exterior doors with solid-core or metal options, install quality deadbolts, and add smart locks as well as motion-activated lighting.
Garage Doors
Garages doors are often unsecured and it’s easy to utilize emergency release cords or force panels open. Keep your garage door closed and locked, secure the emergency release, and install a smart garage door controller so you can monitor and control it remotely.
First-Floor Windows
Windows are often left open, unlocked or just poorly secured. Trim bushes and greenery so not to create hiding places for burglars or block security cameras line of sight. Upgrade all locks and make sure your security system includes features that monitor your windows.
Basements and Cellars
Upgrade old locks and install window bars where needed. Windows broken in the basement may not be heard on the upper floors. Ensure the area has motion lighting or an alarm sensor connected to your home security system.
Balconies and Upper-Level Entrances
Burglars will also scale balconies, climb trellises, or use nearby structures to reach open doors or windows. If possible, move anything that could be used as a ladder away from entry points. Always lock balcony doors and windows when not in use and add sensors and cameras to upper-level access points.
Pet Doors
Even if a person can’t fit through your pet door, they can sometimes reach in to unlock a door. Choose smart pet doors that respond only to your pet’s collar or secure removable covers when you’re away.
Burglars want to get in and out of your home undetected. They will always look for forgotten entry points. By reinforcing these overlooked areas and upgrading old hardware, you are taking a first big step to make these access points look unattractive. Pair these changes with professional monitoring, and you can dramatically reduce your risk of having your home burglarized. American Alarm offers tailored security solutions, from smart locks and sensors to 24/7 alarm monitoring, giving you the peace of mind that every door, window, and hidden corner of your home is protected day and night.