The year seemed to start on a promising note when the FBI’s preliminary crime report for 2019 indicated an overall decrease in property crimes. The initial report, which includes data from January to June 2019, shows a 5.6 percent drop in property crimes, including burglary, robbery, and motor vehicle theft. Arson has decreased by 12.5 percent compared with figures from the first half of 2018.
Despite the decrease in crime figures, homeowners must remain vigilant about property crime. You’ll have better peace of mind if you know your home is safe from any threats to safety and security.
Here are some reminders that can boost property safety and security:
1. Check the gates.
An aluminum fence is an ideal barrier for residential properties. Not all homeowners install fencing for the lawn, garden, or yard. But if you’re thinking about defining property lines and securing your property from trespassers, you might want to consider installing fences around your house.
You might be thinking of wood or wrought iron fencing. They’re great, but they don’t offer the same durability and affordability as aluminum fencing does. Aluminum isn’t as susceptible to corrosion as wrought iron is. And although the upfront costs might be higher for aluminum than for wooden fences, aluminum doesn’t require as much upkeep.
2. Clear the landscape.
Another way you can prevent property crime is to keep your landscape neat and tidy. Overgrown hedges and forgotten shrubs make it easier for lurkers and thieves to sneak around your property. So make sure your hedges and bushes are regularly trimmed and decently sized.
In addition to hedge and bush maintenance, consider planting thorny plants and flowers near the gates or outside your windows. This way, it won’t be easy for trespassers and thieves to get even closer to your property or inside your home. Actual landscape aside, make sure it’s well-lit so you can easily see any suspicious activity outside your property even at night.
3. Change your locks and alarms.
Many people overlook the locks. But it’s especially important to change your locks when you’ve had a previous break-in attempt or incident, or if you just moved into a new home. You don’t know who else has a key to your house, so it’s best to change all the locks for security reasons.
Locks go hand-in-hand with alarm systems in protecting your home and your household from a burglary or other property crimes. There are many types of home security systems to choose from. Explore your options before choosing one to install in your property. Give potential intruders a warning by adding security signs in your yard and security system stickers on your windows.
These are the most effective ways to protect your home from property crimes.
But here’s a bonus tip: take care of your mail when you’ll be away for at least a few days.
Thieves and burglars will take an overflowing mailbox as a sign that nobody’s home. Ask the local post office to hold your mail until you get back, or ask a trusted friend or neighbor to pick up your mail for you. This gives you another way to protect your home even when you’re not there.
