According to the United States Department of Justice, there are 2.5 million burglaries that occur in the United States every year. Out of these, over half are home invasions. Although this number has steadily declined recently, front entry break-ins are still scary for many homeowners. However, protecting your property from burglars does not mean going to extremes or spending much money. Instead, there are easy, common-sense solutions that take little time or effort but can significantly improve your home security. Here are the things you can do right now to secure your home.
Do Not Leave Valuables at Your Front Door
Leaving certain items around your yard or in plain view from the road can unintentionally attract thieves. For example, any bike or scooter should be stored away so that it cannot be easily taken by someone passing by. Likewise, keep the box of any new and expensive electronics you may have purchased. Again, leaving the package outside could attract the attention of potential burglars on the street.
Upgrade Your Old Front Door
Your front door is the most obvious entry point for burglars looking to break into your home. However, suppose you have an older door with poor structural integrity. In this case, it is much easier for burglars to access your home. Whereas a new front door that appears secure makes break-ins more challenging and can deter potential burglaries.
Install a Sturdy Lock at Your Front Entry
Some improvements can help you boost front door security. For one, you can install your front door with a more secure lock. It can either be a deadbolt, a multi-point locking system, or a five-lever mortice lock. Likewise, you can also install it with a security strike plate to reinforce the door jamb. Thus, making kicking in, door prying, and jamb spreading harder for burglars.
Secure the Exterior Sliding Doors
Sliding glass doors, as beautiful as they are, are excellent targets for crooks searching for an easy way into a property. For instance, a metal rod is typically included in certain sliding doors for increased security. If your door comes with a security bar on the track, always use it. Meanwhile, if your sliding door does not have one, installing it is a simple task. Applying security film to the glass will make the door harder to break.
Secure Windows at Your Front Entry
Assuming you have solid doors and excellent quality locks, burglars will look at your windows as an easy point of entry into your home. Using reinforced glass on the windows on the first level of your home is an ideal option. If not, you can install them with protective films and security screens for added security. Some homeowners prefer window security bars or grills, while others prefer to install window alarms.
Do Not Hide Spare Keys Outside or Near Your Front Entry Door
Burglars will likely look under a flower pot or doormat for spare keys. So it is best not to hide one outside the house. Giving your backup key to a trusted neighbor or friend for emergencies is preferable. Rather, a key-safe lock box is also a good idea to keep your keys out of the wrong hands. Key safes are secure metal boxes mounted on the outside wall of your home, and a combination code accesses your keys.
Indeed, home security can be this simple and budget-friendly. A few smart upgrades and some proactive steps can lower the chances of break-ins. Are you ready to level up your home security? Let MacArthur Locks and Doors transform your space with their expert door and lock services.
Door and Lock Service From MacArthur Locks and Doors
Need better security for your front entry? Or have questions about which security solution is best for your home? At MacArthur Locks and Doors, we provide reliable locksmith and door replacement solutions tailored to your needs. Our certified team of experts ensures your home stays safe and secure.
If you have questions or want to learn more about your options, feel free to speak with one of our locksmith DC experts. Contact us today to learn how we can help upgrade your locks and doors with ease.
