Mountain View Sunnyvale CA Real Estate & Properties, Palo Alto, Los Altos & Cupertino Homes for Sale

As summer is a “hot season” for burglaries, you may be looking to enhance home security.  So, how can you make it harder for thieves to break into your home?  Start with a look around.

All the King's Men
• “Case” your home as a burglar would.  Survey during daylight hours and at night to identify blind spots, vulnerable entry points, and anything else that makes a burglar’s job easier.

The Lion King II: Simba's Pride rip

My Bloody Valentine movie download
• As you remedy weak spots, remember that burglars don’t want to be seen, heard, or delayed while they work.  So take actions – like the following – that raise the risk of all three.

• Secure the perimeter to deter would-be intruders.  Trim trees and shrubs to increase visibility and eliminate climbing access to high windows.  Store items such as ladders and tools that can be used to gain entry.  And plant prickly brush under windows, or add small landscaping gravel, which is noisy underfoot.

• Keep it bright so prowlers can be seen.  Use landscape and porch lights, dusk-to-dawn floodlights, and heat or motion triggered spotlights.  And position security lights to prevent tampering.  Inside, consider using a wireless, remote-controlled system that lets you turn on all lights at the press of a button, and set varied random modes for use when you are away.

Capote trailer
• Fortify entry points to make forced entry difficult.  Have solid doors, reinforced jambs, and deadbolts with steel-reinforced strike boxes.  Use double-cylinder deadbolts next to glass panels and security bars for sliding doors.  Further secure windows with auxiliary locks.

The Stendhal Syndrome movie
And keep in mind that security devices are only as effective as your weakest link.  Therefore:

• The Hard Way full
• Be security conscious as a matter of habit.  Establish a routine for locking up and turning on the alarm.  No alarm system?  Consider investing in one.  Be sure to immediately repair broken windows and locks.  And, no hide-a-keys or house keys on a ring with your address.

Also, as you secure your home, be mindful not to impede a safe and quick emergency escape.  Remember that observant neighbors are an effective crime deterrent.  And always consider me your go-to resource for trusted information that helps you keep your home and family safe.

Enjoy this post? Get more like it by subscribing to our blog!