Every year, 4.3% of Aussie households experience a break-in event. Burglaries occur more frequently than most people realise—and for the unprepared, it’s only a matter of time.
But the good news is with proper prevention and awareness, you can greatly reduce the risk of unwanted visitors entering your home. Follow this step-by-step security guide to safeguard your property from burglars.
Secure Your Doors
The front and back doors are the most popular entry points for Aussie burglars; it pays to ensure that they are secure. Keep both doors locked at all times (around a quarter of Australians don’t bother!) and consider upgrading to deadbolts and security screens.
A video intercom system provides added protection by allowing you to see who is at the door. Ask your intercom system supplier for a model that captures images of every doorbell press.
Install Security Cameras
Security cameras are one of the most powerful deterrents against would-be robbers. Upon spotting a camera, the vast majority will move onto a softer target. And should they attempt a break-in, you will have valuable evidence to give the police.
Security cameras also let you monitor your property for unsavoury characters lurking outside. Ask your CCTV supplier for a system you can monitor remotely to keep tabs on your home from anywhere in the world.
Get a Burglar Alarm
The burglar alarm has been warding off would-be thieves for decades, and these handy devices still perform exceptionally well today.
Upon sensing an intruder—either via internal movement or broken glass—the alarm will trigger an ear-piercing screech that is loud enough to send them scurrying away.
It is a simple, cost-effective solution every Australian homeowner should consider.
Light Up Your Landscaping
Robbers love lurking under cover of darkness, and high-powered floodlights offer a potent deterrent.
As sky-high electricity prices make it expensive to leave lights on 24/7, it is best to invest in a motion sensor model.
Not only do floodlights send burglars fleeing, but they also help light the way when you return home after dark.
Secure Your Windows
Windows are the second most common entry point (after doors), so it is worth taking steps to make them secure. Keep your windows locked at all times unless you need a breath of fresh air.
Check your latches to see if they are sufficiently secure. If they seem a tad flimsy, upgrade to a heavy-duty aftermarket latch or lock. Consider adding security screens and/or bars if you live in a high-risk area.
Prune Your Yard
Burglars don’t want to be seen casing a home from the street.
If you have rows of big bushy hedges backed up against your windows and doors, you are giving the robbers a handy hidey-hole. While we don’t suggest stripping your garden bare, it is wise to prune the shrubbery surrounding key entry points.
You can also beef up your backyard security by putting away ladders and tools, locking your sheds and gates, and placing security camera warning stickers by your doors.
Home Automation
Smart home technology can help keep your household safe in several ways.
With an interconnected home automation system, you can switch on lights, lock or open doors, view real-time CCTV footage, and activate the two-way talk feature on your intercom—all with the press of a button on your smartphone. These high-tech, remote activated functions let you monitor your home from anywhere in the world.
Ask your security system supplier for tips on how to build a smart home.
Get a Dog
A faithful four-legged companion not only provides unconditional love, but these adorable creatures also serve as an effective burglar deterrent.
While the big burly breeds—think German Shepherds, Dobermans and Great Danes—work best, most species will do the trick. Any loud barking dog usually creates enough nuisance (and risk) for burglars to move onto a new target.
Install a Safe
Even if you follow all the above steps, a particularly persistent burglar could still find their way inside your home. As a final line of defence, stash your valuables inside a key-coded safe.
It is typically too inconvenient to store everyday items in a safe, but it is certainly suitable for precious possessions like jewellery, heirlooms, and cash.
PSA Products Can Help
With a wide selection of intercom, CCTV, and home security systems, PSA Products offers effective modern solutions to burglar-proof your home. Get in touch with us to find out more about what we can offer you today!
