One of the best (and simplest) ways to keep your home safe is to keep your doors and windows locked. (h/t to UKSurvivalGuides.com)
Burglars usually break into homes through the door, but windows are the second most common entry point. In most cases, a thief will be deterred by a locked window because they don't want to attract attention by breaking your windows.
To fortify your home, "layer" your security measures. Don't stop with simple door or window locks. Detailed below are seven ways to secure your windows and keep your family safe.
Always lock your windows
It seems like common sense, but not everyone remembers to lock their windows before turning in for the night. In fact, at least 30 percent of thieves gain access to a home via unlocked windows or doors.
Before you go to bed or leave your home, double-check if all doors and windows are locked. Once you've locked all doors and windows, don't leave the keys near doors, letter boxes or windows.
If your home has sliding glass windows, install a rod on the track where the window slides so they can't be forced open from the outside.
Install quality locks
Standard window locks installed on most windows aren’t sturdy enough for maximum security. Use quality locks to fortify your home.
Here's a guide on common window locks that you should consider buying:
- Hinged wedge locks – These locks are best for preventing double-hung windows from being forced open. Adjust hinged wedge locks so windows can be opened partially by installing it higher on the window frame.
- Pin locks – Pin locks suit ground floor windows and help prevent burglars from lifting your windows.
- Sash locks – These locks fasten window sashes and prevent thieves from breaking in through unsecured windows.
Deter thieves by installing sturdy and visible window locks on basement and first-floor windows. Add simple deadbolts or sash locks for extra security.
Install security bars and grills
If you live in a neighborhood with a high rate of break-ins, consider installing metal bars and grills to secure your exterior and interior windows. You can either opt for DIY plain residential window security grids, bars or guards, or decorative window bars that match your home decor.
Leave at least one window without security bars as an emergency escape route when SHTF.
Install security cameras
Security cameras are one of the most effective ways to secure your home against burglars. Don't waste money on fake security cameras, which experienced thieves can tell apart from the real thing. (Related: Looking to improve your home security? Here are 25 things you can do right now.)
Apply protective film on windows
Window security films offer two advantages when it comes to hardening window glass:
- They stop windows from shattering when a burglar tries to break in.
- Clear and tinted films prevent strangers from seeing the inside of your house, but you can still see what's outside normally.
If you have the budget to do so, replace standard window glass with smash-proof or thief-resistant glass.
Install floodlights
Thieves tend to hide in dark areas near your home before they try to break in. Secure your property by installing floodlights or motion-sensor window security lights.
Once you notice that the motion-sensing lights are on when they shouldn't be, you'll have enough time to arm yourself in case someone tries to break in.
Plant thorny bushes outside windows
Even natural barriers like shrubs and thorny plants can help deter thieves from breaking in through your windows. Don't grow sturdy plants that can help burglars reach windows and other points of entry.
Choose barriers from the plants below and check if they will grow well in your area.
Cacti:
- Agave
- Barrel cactus (Echinocactus grusonii)
- Prickly pear cactus (Opuntia)
- Yucca
Climbers:
- Climbing rose
Dense growers:
- Colorado spruce/blue spruce (Picea pungens/Glauca Globosa)
- Common holly (Ilex aquifolium)
- Giant rhubarb (Gunnera manicata)
Thorny shrubs:
- Aralia (Aralia spinosa)
- Barberry (Berberis vulgaris)
- Pyracantha (Pyracantha coccinea)
Protect your loved ones and secure your property by always locking your windows or planting thorny plants and bushes near first-floor windows.
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