6 Ways to Secure Your Home Against Theft - Lock, Stock & Barrel Locksmiths

News headlines are dominated by horrific stories of home theft. In 2016, the ABS conducted a study into personal crime, finding that 70,600 Australians experienced at least one robbery between 2015-2016. In addition, recent American research has found it takes at least four months to recover from the physical and emotional stress of a break-in.  As there’s more to deal with than recovering stolen goods, here are six simple tips to secure your home against theft.

1. Under Lock and Key

A vast majority of opportunistic robberies are committed in unlocked homes. Even if you’re only going out for a short time, get into the habit of locking your doors and windows. Talk to the experienced team at Lock, Stock and Barrel Locksmiths for advice on selecting the right door and window locks for your needs.

2 .Uncover Your Property

A simple way to discourage thieves from targeting your home is by creating a clear line of sight from the street. Trim back any trees, bushes or shrubs obscuring your front door, install quality motion sensor lights and report broken streetlights right away. Also, ensure your house number is clearly visible. This way, if you require police assistance, they can respond promptly.

3. Keep Your Home Secure

When you’re away, ask friends and family to collect the mail and stop junk mail from accumulating. Allowing a neighbour to park in your driveway also gives the impression someone is at home. Further security measures include leaving internal lights on, putting a radio or TV on an automatic timer and arranging to have your lawn mowed.

4. Guard Your Keys

Most people know not to leave their keys out where people can see them (like on the kitchen table or bench). But are you aware that lending your keys to acquaintances or even tradespeople poses just as big a risk? Keys are very easily copied and provide would be robbers with a virtual open door to your home.

5. Discover Your Home’s Weaknesses

To protect your home from the outside, survey the area with the eyes of a robber. If you can tell a window could be easily prized open, a thief will discover an easy entryway.
When checking for other vulnerable spots, take particular note of expensive art, electronics or furniture which can be easily spotted through windows. You don’t have to redecorate your home, simply make a few adjustments to keep treasured or expensive items under wraps.

6. Get to Know Your Neighbours

Crime rates are significantly lower in tight-knit communities, because neighbours look after each other and can easily spot a stranger. By providing extra eyes, ears and outside perspective, your neighbours can be one of your best assets in preventing a break-in.

For more tips on securing your home against theft, simply call us on 0411 700 072 or email the experts at Lock, Stock and Barrel Locksmiths today on info@lsblocksmiths.com.au