With October, comes Halloween. Most of us look forward to seeing the little ghosts and goblins in our doorway, scaring us for candy. However, there are real ghosts and goblins during this time of year that are looking for more than candy. October is #NationalCrimePreventionMonth. Take the proper measures to protect your home from crime.
Lock Up. If you’re one of those that tend to forget to lock the house upon leaving, consider investing in a smart lock that automatically locks your door after a designated period of time. For windows, install window stops, which allow the window to open only a few inches — not enough space for a crook to squeeze through if you forget to latch them.
Lighten Up. Even though most break-ins occur during the day, you shouldn’t rule out nighttime as a possibility. Install motion-sensor lighting around the front, back, and sides of your home to leave no opportunity for bad guys to hide in the shadows.
Be smart with your landscape. Walkways and entrances with overgrown bushes and hedges provide an easy hiding spot, creating a more desirable target. Minimize the temptation by keeping shrubs trimmed to no more than 3 feet tall.
Befriend your neighbors. There are many reasons you should get to know your neighbors, home safety being one of them. A good neighbor can help keep an eye on things while you’re away.
As a means of preventing crime, stay focused on observing and being mindful of your surroundings. Continue to interact with your neighbors and members of your community, watching out for each other. If your neighborhood doesn’t already participate in one, think about starting a neighborhood app like Next Door. Next Door is a social networking platform for local communities and neighborhoods. Formed to connect you to not just anybody, but specifically people in your surrounding area. Users post looking for babysitters, sharing news of local events, and news of suspicious behavior.
