Home Invasions & Break-ins

 

Home invasions and break-ins are a reality that we must face. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, one out of every five homes will be victim of a break-in or home invasion. This is a staggering statistic that should not be taken lightly. Moreover, the implications of home invasions can be dire. Thirty-eight percent of violent assaults and 60% of rapes occur during a home invasion. This is disturbing, but some solutions can help protect your home and family.

The first step in protecting your home is to secure your doors. As mentioned earlier, 70% of home invasions occur through a doorway. Your front and back doors should be your first priority regarding home security. Installing a solid-core door is essential, as hollow doors are easily kicked in. Additionally, installing a deadbolt can make it much more difficult for an intruder to gain entry. Finally, ensure that the hinges are on the inside of the door, as this will make it more difficult for an intruder to remove the door from its frame.

Another effective way to secure your home is to install an alarm system. An alarm system can deter intruders from attempting to enter your home. Additionally, if an intruder does attempt to enter, the alarm will sound, alerting you and your neighbours to the potential danger. Many alarm systems are now wireless and can be easily installed. Additionally, some systems offer monitoring services that can notify the police during a break-in.

Adding lighting to the exterior of your home can also be an effective deterrent. Many intruders prefer to operate under cover of darkness, and a well-lit exterior can make it difficult for them to move around undetected. Motion sensor lights are an excellent option, as they only activate when there is movement. This can save energy and ensure that the lights are not on unnecessarily.

Finally, ensuring that you and your family have a plan for a home invasion is essential. Discussing and practicing a technique can help ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency. Additionally, consider investing in self-defence classes or weapons such as pepper spray, which can provide protection.

Home invasions and break-ins are a reality that we must face. However, effective solutions can help protect your home and family. Securing your doors, installing an alarm system, adding exterior lighting, and having a plan can help keep your family safe. By taking the necessary steps to secure your home, you can rest easy knowing that you have done everything possible to protect your loved ones.