Keeping your home secure isn’t just about having alarms and cameras—it’s also about making your property look unappealing to would-be burglars. Most break-ins are crimes of opportunity, meaning criminals look for homes that seem easy, quiet, and low-risk. With a few simple tweaks, you can send a clear message: this house is not an easy target.
Here are 12 effective, practical steps you can take today.
1. Keep Doors and Windows Locked—Always
It sounds basic, but nearly one-third of burglars enter through an unlocked door or window. Make locking up a daily habit, even during daytime errands or yardwork.
2. Install Motion-Activated Exterior Lights
Burglars hate attention. Motion-activated lighting around entryways, garages, and backyards instantly exposes anyone lurking around your property.
3. Keep Shrubs Trimmed Low
Overgrown bushes create hiding spots. Keep landscaping neat and below window height so there’s nowhere for someone to crouch or stay hidden.
4. Use Smart Home Automation
Automated lights, schedules, and remote monitoring make your home look occupied even when it’s not. Smart plugs can randomly turn on lamps or TVs for added realism.
5. Don’t Leave Packages Out
Packages sitting for hours signal no one is home. Use Amazon lockers, delivery instructions, cameras, or ask a neighbor to grab boxes quickly.
6. Secure Sliding Doors
Sliding glass doors are common weak points. Install a security bar or dowel in the track and use reinforced locks to prevent easy entry.
7. Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Don’t store jewelry, electronics, or cash in plain sight from windows. Burglars often “window shop” before choosing a target.
8. Use Visible Security System Signs
A yard sign or window sticker from a reputable company like Catawba Security is often enough to make criminals move on to an easier target.
9. Install Smart Cameras
Visible cameras deter thieves, and connected systems allow you to check your home at any time. Doorbell cameras are especially effective.
10. Reinforce Your Door Frames
Even strong locks are useless if the door frame is weak. Reinforced strike plates, hinge screws, and solid cores make forced entry far harder.
11. Avoid Posting Travel Online Until You’re Back
Burglars monitor social feeds. If your profile is public, they can easily see that your home is empty. Save vacation photos for when you return.
12. Build a Relationship With Your Neighbors
A watchful neighbor is one of the best security tools you can have. Communities that look out for each other experience fewer break-ins.
Secure Your Home With Catawba Security
While these steps go a long way, having a professionally installed security system adds another layer of protection that burglars simply don’t want to deal with.
Catawba Security provides:
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24/7 monitored alarm systems
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Smart cameras and motion sensors
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Home automation for lighting and access control
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Easy smartphone monitoring
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Fast, local service you can trust
If you’re ready to upgrade your home's safety, we’re here to help.
