Movies and TV Shows glorifies the accomplishment of the high-end heist. These bad guys are stylish, dressed in black leather and have some of the most advanced tools. Projected as heroes, these people have the sharp mind and clear plan of action.

In reality, professional burglars look like an innocent man walking down the street. They are looking for the opportunities to target a new house and break into the home of hardworking citizens.

Last month, three men broke into my parent’s house, where I spent twenty-nine years of my life, and stole treasures we worked hard for. It’s heartbreaking! I can’t get into the details of the burglary as the investigation is still on. There are few laxities that came to the forefront which we can’t ignore. And unless we take some concrete actions to protect our house, we are vulnerable to such attacks. These are simple and effective steps you can take to protect your home from break-in or theft.

1. Install quality locks and doors

It would be a great favor for the thieves by not taking care of the point entrance. Install solid doors, windows, and deadbolt locks; make it harder for burglars to enter the home. Even the professional burglar will not spend more than few seconds to open the door. He would avoid making a noise while trying to break into a house as it will be too risky for him. Get in touch with Locksmith service providers to get a quote and detailed consultation to secure your home.

2. Maintain your shrubbery

Maintain shrubbery so that it doesn’t look overgrown as it is a perfect place for a burglar to hide behind. It should be of a perfect height to create a barrier and low enough that no one can hide. Display “Beware” signs if you have a dog or alarm. It definitely works!

3. Install a security system

A high-quality security system is one of the most important you can do to protect your home and family. Consider many aspects before buying the security system – size of your home, entry points etc.
A monitored home security system is the perfect way to have a surveillance whether you’re at home or away.

4. Automatic Lights and Motion Sensor

Install automatic lights and motion sensor as burglars are more active at night. Motion sensor lights offer a perfect balance between energy efficiency and security. Motion sensor technology will sense movement in the dark and will scare the intruder.

5. Secure home when leaving on vacation

80% of times burglary takes place when there is no one in

the house for a long period. When you are going away on vacation it is important that you should take care of the following things:

a) Inform your neighbors of your plans and request them to watch your home when you are away.

b) If possible ask someone to collect the mail or held by the postal service. Piles of unattended mails is a good sign that the house is empty.

c) Cancel newspaper in advance. If it is not canceled then ask someone to take care of the newspapers/parcels/deliveries.

d) Appoint at least two light timers so that they can switch on and off lights.

e) If possible, hire a guard to take care of your house when you are away for a longer duration.

6. Keep expensive items out of sight

As much possible, keep expensive items out of sight as it will tempt burglars to target your house. What is a good incentive to a burglar to pick your house? An expensive flat screen TV or music system visible from the window can tempt him to pick your house. Do not leave the boxes of your last purchased home or kitchen appliances around your yard. Keep your curtains drawn…you never know who’s watching!

7. Keep jewelry and important documents in safe/lockers.

It may seem like an obvious thing to do but most of us ignore it. It is EXTREMELY important to keep your jewelry and important documents in a locker or safe. Rent a bank locker or hire a reputable service provider to keep your valuables out of your house. provider. If this isn’t possible then you need an in-house safe/locker to keep it safe. Get a picture and note down every single piece of jewelry and document that you keep in a safe.

8. Record the serial number of your valuables.

Thieves cannot run away with a serial number. It is important to record the serial numbers and description of your valuables (e.g home and kitchen appliances, laptop etc.). This process is important as it can help you get your items back if ever you become the victim of the crime.

Protect your home before you go on a vacation or when you’re home!

Protect your Social Identity and understand why it is important. Read it here.

What do you think I missed out on the list? What is your story? Share and let me know!

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post brought to you by  lockupservices.ca. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience