According to the Chicago Police Department, there were 12,160 burglaries in Chicago in 2016. Unfortunately this is not even out of the ordinary as the annual burglary count is usually over 11,000. A burglary is defined as illegal entry into a building with intent to commit a crime.
Clearly, with so many break-ins each year we can’t bury our heads and pretend the risk is not there. Luckily, there are steps you can take to make your home safer. Thieves are opportunistic; they look for easy opportunities to steal. We’ve created this guide with tips for preventing home break-ins.
Home Break-ins Tips #1: Lock Doors and Windows
A key to protecting yourself from home break-ins is deterrents. Criminals are looking to grab low hanging fruit, not execute a complicated break-in. Locking all your doors and windows when you leave the home or go to sleep is very important. It may sound simple but taking this step could prevent a thief from choosing your home.
Make sure your entire family is on the same page. Kids should be educated on the procedure for leaving the home in case they are the last ones to leave. Create a checklist of things that need to be done before leaving home.
Home Break-ins Tips #2: Maintain the House Upkeep
Another deterrent is a nice looking home. A criminal will realize that a well-kept house means people are often around. Opportunistic criminals look for signs that homeowners are away. When you do go away, make sure it is not obvious.
Take these steps when you are away from the house for extended periods of time: Arrange with the post office to hold your mail or have a friend pick up your mail. A build-up of mail makes it clear you are not home. Set up lights with automatic timers to go on for certain periods of time so your house is not dark all day. Lastly, arrange for your lawn to be mowed periodically. This is one of many useful home break-ins tips.
Home Break-ins Tips #3: Surveillance System in Chicago
Surveillance systems in Chicago are a fantastic deterrent to criminals. A window sticker or sign showing the house has an alarm doesn’t necessarily scare a criminal. A camera staring them in the face does. Surveillance systems show would-be intruders you mean business and help send them on their way.
Call Alert Protective Services Today
For the best surveillance systems in Chicago call Alert Protective Services today. We work day and night to keep your family safe. Call (855) 433-6770 or contact us today. Try our DIY services, if you would like to install your security system yourself.