Top Reasons Why a Home Security System Makes Sense

By Mary Butler

A burglary occurs about every 15 seconds in the U.S., according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. But if you follow a few easy steps, you can easily protect your home from becoming a statistic.

Burglars generally look for the easiest targets when planning their crimes: easy access, an ability to come and go without being seen, no dogs or alarm system, and an absent owner, as most residential burglaries occur during the day.

Use Common Sense and an Alarm System to Prevent Burglary
While a home security system is an inexpensive and practical way to protect yourself against a home invasion, it's not the only step you should take.

• Lock your windows and doors and use high-quality deadbolts. This might seem obvious, but many people don't do it. Burglars most often enter through front, back, or garage doors. Reinforce sliding glass doors by placing a dowel or other blocking device in their tracks.
• Lock your car. Burglars know to look inside an unlocked car for keys and other valuables.
• Clear shrubs or brush that may allow someone to enter or exit your home unseen.
• Don't let newspapers or mail pile up when you're out of town. Request a hold.
• Install motion sensor lighting that illuminates your home's entryways at night, and put your interior lights on a timer when you're out of town.