Property crime is declining in the US, according to the recently released 2018 statistics by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. However, in Miami, you still have a 1 in 25 chance of falling victim to property crime. Doing what you can will certainly help make sure your home stays safe.
Here is a list of things you can do now to protect your property and your loved ones.
Home Improvements
To start off, making these changes to your home will boost your security.
— Lock everything. Make sure you lock all doors and windows before you sleep or leave, or whenever you’re alone in your house. This is simple really. Some burglaries are done without forced entry because of unlocked doors. If you don’t have locks on your windows, try installing a simple and inexpensive pin lock.
While you’re at it, lock safes, jewelry boxes, and file cabinets whenever you’re away as well.
— Invest in lights. They don’t necessarily have to be motion-detecting, but burglars may be deterred when they see that they are clearly visible at night. Even if you are away, lights can still help your neighbors keep watch of your property. Lights will be doubly effective if they are working in tandem with security cameras.
— Explore security systems. A home alarm system gives you peace of mind when you are away. Many systems already offer ways for you to monitor your home through apps in your smartphone. You can even program automatic messages and posts on social media when your alarm goes off. To top it off, a sign outside your home warning of your security system can be enough to deter would-be intruders.
— Trim your hedges. Thieves will often target homes where their entry and exit can be hidden. Make sure you don’t let your bushes and hedges obscure the view.
You can take it to the next level by planting security hedges. The Metropolitan Police in the UK even released a list of plants that can make it difficult for burglars to enter your premises.
Attitude Changes
— Be vigilant. Just because your neighborhood is relatively safe, doesn’t mean you can be complacent. Double check locks and entry points especially when you will be away. You should also check who is knocking through the peephole before opening the door.
You should also look out for others in your neighborhood. Try establishing a Facebook page for your area so you can update each other when your houses will be empty for long periods.
— Don’t broadcast too much. Social media can be double-edged. If you post about your two-week out-of-town trip ahead of time, burglars can also prepare to break in as you head out. Try not to be too specific about periods of absence.
You shouldn’t post pictures of your keys online as well. If you need to keep pictures of your keys so you can have copies made if you lost them, make sure the images stay on your phone. Burglars can also make their own copies based on your pictures if you make publicly accessible.
Extra Precautions
— Get insured. Many insurance policies also offer theft protection. It is not ideal, but if you do fall victim to a burglary, you at least have a chance of getting compensated for it. If you encounter issues with your claim, it may also be worth speaking with public adjusters in Miami, Fl.
— Secure your mail. Even if your house is completely protected, your mailbox may not be. Don’t give thieves possible access to your personal information. Installing a lock on your mailbox can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
You home holds not only your property, but also your most precious loved ones. Make sure you do what you can to protect them. Follow this list and sleep soundly with your mind at peace.
&nbs