Home Security How-To

Every 15 seconds, a burglary takes place, and, according to home security specialist ADT, only 20% of homes have security systems.

Not shocking enough? Convicted burglars have stated that thieves are more likely – 300% times more likely – to target homes without a security system. Even evidence of a security system, such as signs discreetly tucked in gardens and stickers on windows, give burglars pause.

Most burglaries occur in daylight, between 10 am and 3 pm, when most targets and their neighbors are away from home at work and school. Summer is the preferred season for burglars to practice their trade, with July and August being more popular. Not surprisingly, burglars don’t want to make off with your electronics in the snow and ice; February is the least active month among the criminal crowd (and the rest of the population as well, if we’re honest). Additionally, corner homes are most likely to be burgled.

Security measures we can all take

Whether you have a security system or not, there are plenty of things you can do to keep your home safe.

It seems like a no-brainer but bears saying: keep your doors and windows locked. 34% of burglars enter through a home’s primary entrance, over half gain access through the front or back door and a quarter through a first-floor window.
And speaking of front and back doors, keep your porch lights on at night. A well-lit entrance deters burglars who prefer the shroud of darkness.
And speaking of darkness… install motion-activated floodlights.
Leave your TV or radio on while you are gone to create the illusion that someone is home.
Keep curtains closed after dark. Burglars often case their potential prey. Don’t let them see your brand new flat-screen TV.
Get a big ‘ol junkyard dog named Lucifer. Or a small powder puff named Fifi, as long as it barks. A barking dog is a natural alarm system.
Trim your bushes and shrubs to make it more difficult for would-be thieves to hide.
Set your indoor lights with timers if you’re going to be out of town.
And while you are at it, have your neighbor pick up your mail, any packages delivered while you are away, and newspaper. Accumulating papers and mail are a dead giveaway that a homeowner is away.

But if you are in the market for a home security system…

No longer are home security systems for the well-to-do in their mansions. There are as many systems as there are budgets and securing your home is affordable. For a bare-bones approach, opt for the traditional burglar system only. Have a little more money to spare? Consider adding extras, such as fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, motion-detecting lights, and alerts to emergency personnel. As an added bonus, a reduction in home insurance – up to 20% – can offset the money spent on a security system.

Remember that today’s security systems are much easier to use than those even five or 10 years ago. Technology has advanced to make them (almost) foolproof. Remote functionality via a mobile app means you can arm the alarm, turn off a false alarm, and receive alerts. The chances of your pet triggering the alarm in your absence is rare.

Experiencing the mother of all electrical storms and your power goes out? No worries. Security systems will continue to operate as they have reserve batteries that serve as a “backup generator” should there be a power outage.

The idea of a stranger in your house, rummaging through your belongings, is a violation. Your home is your sanctuary. The good news is there are simple steps you can take – from switching on a light and locking a door to installing a full-blown security system– to protect your haven.

* Specific loan program availability and requirements may vary. Please get in touch with your mortgage advisor for more information.