There are many simple and inexpensive things you can do right now to protect your home from burglary. Check out these 10 ways to make your home safer.

1. Install Security

These days security systems are very affordable for homeowners and renters. Installing an alarm system will give you peace of mind that your home is safe and sound. You can even receive updates, set the monitoring system, and close your garage door all from the convenience of your phone.

Security Photo Credit:anyaberkut (iStock).

Photo Credit:anyaberkut (iStock).

2. Close All The Curtains

Not only do you want to keep your curtains closed at night, but you may also want to consider blackout curtains. The term blackout refers to privacy meaning you cannot see into your home when blackout curtains are closed.

3. Place Wood in Sliding Doors

Prevent burglary by keeping your home safe and secure. Place a wooden stick or metal rod in the gap of sliding doors to prevent thieves from easily entering your home.

4. Hang a Beware of Dog Sign

It doesn’t hurt to hang a beware of dog sign on a fence or door outside of your home for added safety. In most cases, dogs deter burglars from targeting your home in the first place.

Beware of dog sign Photo Credit: AnthonyRosenberg (iStock).

Photo Credit: AnthonyRosenberg (iStock).

5. Secure Your Windows

Never leave your windows unlocked. Even if you have an alarm system, thieves are known for quick entry and an even faster exit. Take steps towards better home safety by checking windows regularly to make sure they are securely locked.

6. Shut Your Garage Door

Don’t make it easy for intruders to get into your home. If your garage is left unoccupied or you run inside the house quickly, be sure to close the garage door behind you. To often burglaries occur when garage doors are left wide open.

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7. Pick Up Mail Daily

Make sure you check your mail every day to prevent sensitive information like social security or credit card numbers from being stolen. Don’t leave mail sitting in mailboxes overnight or for long periods of time.

Mailbox Photo Credit:AndreyPopov (iStock).

Photo Credit:AndreyPopov (iStock).

8. Keep Firearms Handy

The average response time for police is about 18 minutes according to Sherrifts.org. With that being said, it’s not a bad idea to keep a gun in your home for added protection. Firearms can be stored safely in your home using a lockbox or gun safe.

9. Don’t Post On Social Media

Too often we post on social media for the world to know all of our business. For safety reasons, wait to post on social media about any type of traveling until you return home.

10. Keep The Lights On

When your not home, turn on a few random lights to make bypassers think someone is home. You can even ask a neighbor or close friend to turn different lights on and off when you’re away.

These home safety tips will make all the difference in keeping you and your family safe from burglary.