You lock your doors every night and have a dog that barks at strangers. Because of this, you feel relatively safe in your own home. But what if the security measures you rely on are actually sending an open invitation to burglars? Criminals are constantly evolving their methods, and they know exactly what to look for. Unfortunately, many of us are still clinging to outdated security habits that make their job incredibly easy. It’s time for a reality check. We will uncover the common mistakes that put you at risk to ensure your home is as secure as you think it is.
Relying on a “Hidden” Spare Key
The plastic rock or the space above the door frame may seem clever, but they are not. In fact, these are the first places any experienced burglar will look for a spare key. Leaving a key outside is like leaving your door unlocked. This is one of the most dangerous and outdated security habits. Instead, give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or family member. Or, better yet, invest in a keypad lock so you never have to worry about keys at all.
Posting Your Vacation Plans Online
When you’re excited about your trip, you might post a countdown on Facebook. Perhaps you share photos from the airport. In doing so, you’ve just announced to the world that your home is empty and unguarded. Burglars actively monitor social media for exactly this kind of information. As a result, they can use your posts to determine the perfect time to break in. It’s much safer to wait until you get back to share your amazing vacation photos.
Leaving Your Mailbox to Overflow
A mailbox stuffed with letters and newspapers piling up on the driveway are classic signs that nobody is home. This is a visual cue to burglars that you’ve been away for a few days. Consequently, it makes your home a prime target. If you’re going out of town, even for a weekend, ask a neighbor to collect your mail. You can also place a temporary hold on your mail through the post office. It’s a simple step that removes a major red flag.
Trusting That Flimsy Chain Lock
That little chain lock on your door might make you feel safer, but it offers almost no real protection. For instance, it can be easily broken with a single kick or a simple tool. A burglar sees a chain lock as a minor inconvenience, not a serious obstacle. Your primary line of defense should be a high-quality deadbolt. A deadbolt lock goes much deeper into the door frame and is significantly harder to force open. Therefore, you should ditch the chain for real security.
Keeping Your Curtains Wide Open at Night
When it gets dark outside, your illuminated home becomes a fishbowl. From the street, anyone can see everything: your expensive electronics, your family’s routine, and whether your home. Burglars can essentially window-shop for valuables without ever setting foot on your property. For this reason, you should get in the habit of closing your blinds or curtains at dusk. This simple act protects your privacy and prevents criminals from casing your home.
Forgetting to Secure Your Sliding Doors
Sliding glass doors are a notorious weak point in home security. Their factory locks are often flimsy and easy to force open. Many people forget to secure them properly, assuming the standard latch is enough. However, it isn’t. You can dramatically improve security by placing a sturdy dowel or metal bar in the track. This prevents the door from being slid open from the outside. It’s a low-tech but highly effective solution that every homeowner should use.
Assuming a “Beware of Dog” Sign Is Enough
A “Beware of Dog” sign can be a deterrent, but experienced burglars know it’s often a bluff. They may watch your home to see if a dog is actually present. And even if you do have a dog, it may not be the guard dog you think it is. In fact, many family pets are more likely to greet an intruder with a wagging tail than a bark. While a dog can add a layer of security, relying solely on a sign is one of those outdated security habits you need to drop.
Modern Threats Require Modern Thinking
Protecting your home isn’t about building a fortress. Instead, it’s about being smart and proactive. Many of the security strategies we learned from our parents are simply no longer effective. Burglars are clever, but you can be cleverer. By letting go of these outdated security habits and adopting a modern mindset, you can significantly reduce your risk. Ultimately, you will create a safer environment for yourself and your loved ones.
What’s one security tip you swear by? Share it in the comments below!
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The post 7 Outdated Security Habits Burglars Are Glad You Still Have appeared first on Budget and the Bees.
