Protect Your Basement Too
When it comes to home security, you’re probably worried about someone breaking in through your bedroom window or the front door, right? A lot of people forget that burglars often enter homes through garages and other places, particularly basements. For this reason, focus on basement security as you’re trying to improve the security of your home.
Though the basement itself may not hold anything of value, often doors or windows leading to the basement are not as well protected as other entry points to the home. Most people spend far less energy and time thinking about their basement than on other areas of the home. You might think that your basement is dark and creepy, but a criminal just sees it as easy access to the rest of your home. Of course, if you use the space for storage, criminals might see the added benefit of hitting the basement, where they can spend time rummaging through your stuff without you having any idea they’re down there.
What can you do to protect the security of this area? First, improve the windows. Make sure they lock securely from the inside, always keep them locked, and protect them with audible window alarms. Those living in an older home may want to consider replacing the windows. Older windows are often easier to break, not to mention drafty, potentially increasing your home heating costs. Wood-framed windows located near the ground, as many basement windows are, are particularly susceptible to damage related to age, which may allow a burglar to easily pry the window open. In addition to replacing the windows with sturdier ones equipped with locks and audible alarms, glass break alarms are another great security device to alert you to someone trying to squeeze in through a basement window.
Many families consider installing burglar bars on these windows, even if they do not have such bars on the windows of their regular living spaces. Although such devices can prevent a burglar from smashing the window to gain entry, consider how the bars are installed. If not secure enough, a burglar may simply remove them before breaking in. On the other hand, bars that can’t be easily removed from inside the home impede exit in the case of a fire or other emergency.
What are other ways to prevent burglars from breaking into this area? First, advertise your alarm system with alarm company signs and decals – even if you don’t have a whole-house alarm system installed. Improve outdoor lighting, especially around windows and doors. Consider security cameras or dummy cameras if you are particularly concerned about people prowling around your home. Trim trees and bushes surrounding the basement – thieves often use them as coverage while they’re trying to break in. Consider planting such shrubbery further away from the home, or replace it with thorny varieties such as roses.
The most effective home security strategies are those devised with your home’s particular layout and weaknesses in mind. Always remember to protect every potential entry into your home, not just the ones you use every day.
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Category: Home Management
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