Thinking about ways to protect your home? Don't forget the basement!
Burglars are looking for easy points of entry into your home, and while the basement may not seem appealing to you, if left vulnerable or unguarded, you could quickly welcome a home intruder inside.
To keep your household safe and secure, here are 5 tips for securing your basement from burglars:
- Make sure all windows and doors are locked
- Keep shrubs, plants, and trees trimmed
- Install window security film
- Consider placing bars over windows
- Invest in a home security system
A simple weekend project could make all the difference in safeguarding your family and precious belongings.
Want to protect against home invasions and burglaries? Call Ackerman Security at 800.552.1111 for a free upfront quote on the latest home security systems. Our security experts will provide a thorough, on-site security inspection—including details on the best security solutions for your needs and budget. You can also get an instant quote online.
Make Sure All Windows and Doors Are Locked
We cannot stress this enough: always keep your windows and doors locked, especially in places like your basement, where you may not spend a whole lot of time.
It's all too easy to open a basement window or door— whether due to cleaning, a family game night, etc.— and then forget that you didn't shut it back into the fully locked position. You're left vulnerable to break-ins, theft, or worse when this happens.
ADTreports that 23% of home intruders will gain entry through first-floor windows, so to keep your home secure, consider installing window locks on all your basement windows.
Window locks are an easy way to increase your home's security.
Depending on the condition of your basement's exterior doors (or if you have any), you might also replace your door lock plates and deadbolts for added security.
Keep Shrubs, Plants, and Trees Trimmed
If your basement windows are low to the ground or have steps leading down to your basement's exterior door, keep all shrubs, plants, and trees trimmed back for increased visibility.
Criminals are looking for places to hide, either while surveilling a target's home or attempting to break in. To ensure that they don't have easy cover, perform routine yard maintenance around the perimeter of your basement.
In addition to deterring break-ins, you'll be more likely to notice signs of suspicious activity. Examples include shoe prints that don't match anyone in your household, empty or half-full water bottles or soda cans, cigarette butts, and other indications that someone has been hanging around your property.
If you see any of these signs, report them to your local authorities immediately.
Install Window Security Film
If they can't pry your basement windows open, criminals may attempt to shatter them. So to safeguard against this possibility, install window security film that prevents glass from shattering.
Found at your local big box hardware store for less than $50, you can install this film on all your basement windows for added protection against break-ins.
A roll of window security film to protect glass from shattering.
Consider Placing Bars Over Windows
For complete protection against burglars, you might consider installing bars over your basement windows. Window security bars cost less than $50 and can be purchased at most big box stores.
Although the aesthetic isn't very pleasing, you'll have peace of mind that no one can attempt to open or shatter them. And with some thoughtful landscaping around the perimeter of your home, it's possible that no one but you may notice them.
Invest in a Home Security System
Homes without a security system are three times more likelyto be broken into. To secure your home from break-ins (whether through the basement or any other point of entry), we recommend investing in a security system.
With window and door sensors in place, the authorities will be notified immediatelyof any potential intrusions. Moreover, surveillance cameras will tell potential intruders: Get lost or risk getting caught on camera!
Best of all? You can rest easy knowing that your family is safe and protected. As they say, peace of mind is priceless!
Want a Free Quote for a Home Security System?
Call Ackerman Security at 800.552.1111 or book a free quote online.
For more than 50 years, we've helped keep Atlanta homeowners secure with the latest alarm systems, video surveillance products, and 24/7 professional monitoring. To speak with one of our trusted security experts, call today. We're the only security company in Northern America that offers a "no-theft" guarantee!