Avoid These Common Home Security Mistakes to Keep Your Home Safe

In our world, thousands of burglaries occur daily, shaking the very foundation of what homeowners consider safe and sacred. Far beyond material loss, the personal space violation is a scary experience and can leave you in constant fear in a home that's supposed to make you feel the opposite.

What's even more hair-raising is the potential threat to you and your family's safety. Thankfully, many of these break-ins could've been easily avoided. Simple oversights like leaving your windows unlocked, tucking a spare key under the doormat, or inadvertently signaling an empty house can transform your home into a prime target for intruders.

This raises a critical question: are you unwittingly making these common errors, placing your loved ones and valuables in jeopardy? Here, we cove the home security basics with these eight critical mistakes, so you don't have to experience the aftermath.

1.  Lacking Proper Locks

One of home security's most basic yet crucial aspects is having strong locks on all entry points. Many homeowners underestimate the importance of quality locks and settle for flimsy ones. Invest in deadbolt locks for exterior doors and reinforce sliding glass doors with additional security bars. Regularly check and maintain locks to ensure they're functioning correctly.

Better yet, integrate a wireless home security system with access control. Control your home's security system and connected devices through an easy-to-use mobile app, ensuring you're always in control, whether at home or on the go.

2.  Spare Key Under the Porch Mat

Hiding a spare key under the doormat or a nearby rock is a common mistake. Burglars know all the usual hiding spots! Instead, consider giving a spare key to a trusted neighbor or invest in systems like Kwikset, which can provide keyless entry and remote access. Imagine coming home to a door that unlocks itself, lights that turn on automatically, and a security system that disarms, all triggered by simply unlocking your door. Avoid making it easy for intruders to find your spare key.

3. No Outdoor Lighting

Darkness provides cover for criminals. Install motion-activated outdoor lights around your property, especially near entryways, pathways, and the garage. Well-lit areas deter burglars and make it easier to see suspicious activity. Consider using energy-efficient LED bulbs for cost-effective security lighting.

4. Unsecure Windows

Windows are vulnerable points of entry. Ensure all windows have sturdy locks, and consider installing window sensors or security film to reinforce them. Don't forget the basement and attic windows! Keep them locked, and consider adding window bars or grilles for protection.

5. Visible Alarm System

Alarm systems are a smart choice for protecting your home from intruders. However, be mindful of how much you reveal concerning your system. Some burglars are informed about different alarm systems and might know how to disable them, preventing the alert from reaching the authorities.

Keep your alarm system out of plain view. If an outsider can easily see your system and check its status, it could entice an intruder. A good practice is to secure your valuables in a safe since they remain locked regardless of whether your alarm system is activated or not.

6. Posting Vacation Plans on Social Media

You may be wondering, "What time do most break-ins occur?" Well, the typical answer is between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. However, if you look at the data by season, as per this U.S. Department of Justice report, household burglary rates are approximately 11% lower in winter, 9% lower in spring, and about 6% lower in fall than summer on average. That makes summer the prime month for break-ins — most likely because people go on holiday.

If we were to correlate summer being a higher break-in month due to more vacations, then you should be careful when vacationing in general. Announcing your vacation plans on social media is an open invitation to burglars; some plans might be best to stay private. Wait until you're back home to share your travel experiences. Meanwhile, ask a neighbor to collect your mail, set lights on timers, activate your video surveillance cameras, and make your home appear occupied. Don't make it obvious that your house is empty. 

## 7. Poor Landscaping

Overgrown bushes and trees provide hiding spots for intruders. Trim shrubs near windows and keep trees well-maintained. Consider planting thorny bushes near vulnerable areas. A well-kept landscape enhances curb appeal and discourages burglars at the same time.

7. Not Investing in Home Security Systems

Not everyone is keen on the idea of investing in home security systems. Reasons range from reluctance to use alarms to concerns about monthly expenses. However, you must understand that modern technology offers alternative, cost-effective ways to boost your home's security without breaking the bank.

An excellent example is installing exterior cameras. These devices double as a deterrent and valuable evidence during a break-in. Capturing footage of an intruder before and after the crime can offer insights into improving security measures to prevent future incidents.

Video Surveillance solutions extend your security perimeter with WiFi-enabled interior and exterior cameras, utilizing video analytics to alert you to the presence of people, vehicles, or animals. An HD WiFi video doorbell protects your deliveries from "Porch Pirates," offering two-way communication and cloud storage for video and audio—no wiring is required for this completely wireless solution. You'll never have to question who's at your door again, whether you're home or away.

For more tips on home security in Richmond, VA, contact a local professional in your area today.