Theft is common in Chicago, despite the local police department helping deter crime in the public setting. Fortunately, the S.O.S Private Security Company in Chicago offers top-notch security services, so you can feel safe and secure in your home.
There are also simple measures that you can take to minimize the risk of crime. From simple tips like placing valuables away from windows to installing state-of-the-art home security systems, we have all the information you need to safeguard your home or business.
Read on and learn how to keep our homes and valuables safe and how to request home protection services from S.O.S. Private Security company.
Lock All Doors and windows
Locking all windows and doors in your house is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent theft. It may seem common sense, but many break-ins occur because homeowners forget to lock their doors or windows before leaving.
Not only should you lock doors and double-hung windows when you leave the house, but also when you are inside. Use the locks to ensure that if someone tries to break in, they won’t be able to do so quickly. Avoid leaving your house keys at the flower pot, as this trick is well known.
It’s important to have second-floor windows locked, as burglars can use ladders or climb up drainpipes to gain access. Make sure all garage door locks function correctly and replace them if necessary. Locking the garage door prevent vehicle theft which most burglars target.
Put up warning signs
Putt up warning signs around your property conveys that you take your property’s security seriously and are not an easy target.
It is essential to place these signs in visible areas, such as near the entry points of your property or on gates, fences, or walls. This will make them hard to miss for anyone passing by.
Using bold fonts with large lettering can help emphasize the message in these signs, making them even more effective at deterring potential intruders from entering.
In addition to standard warning signs about CCTV cameras or security patrols, you could also use personalized messages such as “Beware of Dog” or “Alarm System Installed.” These types of warnings add an extra layer of intimidation and often cause burglars to rethink their plans.
Place Valuables Further Away From Windows
Placing your valuables away from windows might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s surprising how many people leave expensive items in plain sight of potential thieves.
When burglars seek homes to target, they often look through windows first. If they see something valuable within reach, they’ll be more likely to attempt a break-in. By keeping your other valuables out of sight from passersby, you reduce the risk that someone will be tempted by what they see.
Of course, moving all your belongings away from windows is not always practical or feasible. But even small changes can make a big difference – try moving jewelry boxes or other small items into drawers or closets instead.
In addition to protecting your property against theft, having fewer visible possessions also reduces the likelihood that you will become a victim of home invasion robbery.
Install a Light Sensor with a Motion Detector
Installing a light sensor with motion detectors is an effective solution for deterring burglars and keeping your home safe. The reason why it’s so important to install a light sensor with a motion detector is because most burglaries happen at night when it’s dark outside.
Burglars tend to target homes without outdoor lights, making them easy targets. With a light sensor installed, you can detect suspicious movement around your property and trigger bright lights that will scare off potential intruders.
Moreover, installing a light sensor with a motion detector can also save you money on electricity bills by reducing energy waste. The lights will only turn on when someone or something triggers the sensors so that they won’t stay on unnecessarily throughout the night.
Having outdoor lighting for dark spots can also improve visibility for yourself and visitors coming into your home at night. You’ll no longer have to fumble through your house keys trying to unlock doors or walk up unlit pathways leading up to your house.
Set Timers for Indoor Lighting in the House
Setting timers for indoor lighting is an effective way to prevent property theft. Burglars often target unoccupied homes, and leaving your house dark for long periods can make it look like no one is home. Setting up a timer to turn on lights at different times throughout the day can create the illusion of someone being in the house.
Automatic timers are easy to use and relatively inexpensive. You can purchase them at any hardware or home goods store, and they come in various styles and designs. Some even have smart features that allow you to control them from your phone or tablet.
Install Alarms on Doors and Windows
Door and window alarms can be easily installed without needing professional assistance. They work by emitting a loud noise when the door or window they are attached to is opened or tampered with.
The sound produced by the alarm not only alerts you but also serves as a deterrent for potential intruders. In many cases, just the sound of an alarm going off is enough to scare away burglars. You can install deadbolt locks on the exterior doors as they require a key to be opened. They can also be used in the garage for car theft prevention.
Put up a Secure Fence on Your Property
sturdy fences are physical barriers that deter criminals from entering your property. It also makes it more challenging for them to carry large items out of the premises, making theft less attractive.
A well-constructed fence can also serve as an early warning system by creating noise when tampered with, alerting you or neighbors to potential danger. The extra layer of security can make all the difference in deterring burglars from targeting your home.
Install Secure Locks on the Front Door
The front door is the main entry point of your home, making it easy access for burglars and intruders. Having secure strike plate locks on your front door can make all the difference in preventing theft and keeping your property safe.
A secure lock provides a barrier that makes it difficult for anyone to enter your home. It acts as a physical deterrent to potential thieves who may be looking for easy access. Installing a strike plate deadbolt or smart lock system can provide added security measures that ensure only authorized individuals can access your apartment.
Install Bars on all Sliding Glass Doors
Glass sliding doors may offer a stylish and convenient way to access your home or business, but they can also be an easy target for burglars. It’s essential to secure all sliding doors with sturdy locks and additional security measures.
A standard method used by burglars is lifting the door off its track. To prevent this, you can install bars or pins at the top of the door frame that prevents it from being lifted off its tracks. This simple addition can significantly improve the security of your property.
Another effective option is installing a metal grate over your basement windows. These grates are made of heavy-duty materials that are difficult to break through, making them a formidable barrier against intruders.
Store valuable documents and valuables in an armored safe
Imagine coming home from work or a vacation to find that someone has broken into your house and stolen your jewelry, cash, passports, car insurance policy, and other critical documents. It will be devastating. But having an armored safe installed in your home provides peace of mind knowing that these things are protected even if thieves manage to break into your property.
Moreover, an armored safe is usually fireproof or at least resistant to heat so that it won’t get damaged during fires or any natural disasters. Keep all essential papers like birth certificates, social security cards, marriage licenses, and insurance policies inside the safes since replacing them can be too costly.
Don’t Announce Your Travel plans on Social Media and the Internet
While sharing your excitement about an upcoming trip with friends and family may be tempting, announcing it publicly could put your home at risk.
The truth is that criminals are always looking for easy targets, and someone who has announced their departure from home presents just that. Whether you’re going away for a weekend or an extended vacation, avoid posting details about your trip until after you’ve returned.
Additionally, consider turning off location-sharing features on cell phone apps while away. These features can give thieves valuable information about when you’re not at home.
Copy Valuable Data from Your Computer to a Disk or Flash Drive
In today’s digital age, our personal and professional lives are stored on computers, which makes us vulnerable to cyber attacks and theft.
Hackers can easily access our personal information, such as bank details, social security numbers, credit card numbers, and other sensitive data, if we don’t take the necessary precautions. By copying valuable data onto a separate storage device like a disk or flash drive, you will have extra protection against such threats.
Ask a Neighbor to Keep an Eye on the House
most break-ins happen when you’re away. Therefore, asking a trusted neighbor to monitor your house while you’re away is effective if you plan on being gone for an extended period.
Leaving your spare key for someone to check on your home regularly can discourage potential burglars who may be scoping out the area. Also, you can get a police officer from the police department to patrol your residence. Thieves are much less likely to attempt a break-in if they see activity at the residence.
Plant thorny bushes under your windows
Intruders are deterred by the spiky nature of the plants, which can inflict serious injury if someone tries to climb over them.
Moreover, these bushes have a dual purpose: they add beauty and privacy to your home while providing an additional security layer. They are a natural barrier between you and any potential intruders, making it much more challenging for anyone who wants to enter your house.
Thorny bushes like roses or holly also require minimal maintenance once established, only needing occasional pruning. Also, trim trees around your compound to enhance visibility.
Install video surveillance cameras
Video surveillance cameras can detect any suspicious activity in and around your home or business, allowing you to monitor everything from afar.
A reliable home security system also serves as a theft prevention measure. They know they are being watched, reducing the likelihood of them attempting to break in.
Furthermore, security cameras provide essential evidence in case of a crime when you report it to your local police department. The footage recorded by these cameras can be used to identify perpetrators and bring them to justice.
Cancel Delivery of Newspapers, Mail, and Parcels
Canceling the delivery of newspapers, mail, and parcels may surprise many homeowners, but having uncollected items outside your door can attract thieves looking for easy targets.
When newspapers pile up on the doorstep, or the mailbox overflows with letters, it sends a clear message that nobody is home. Thieves take advantage of this opportunity to break into homes and steal valuables. Therefore, canceling deliveries from the post office before heading out for long periods is crucial.
Canceling these services doesn’t have to be permanent; you can always resume them upon your return. Alternatively, you can ask someone trusted to collect them regularly while away.
Leave the Radio or T.V. on in the House
Leaving the radio or T.V. on in the house when you’re not there might seem strange, but it can be an effective deterrent against burglars. Criminals often look for signs that nobody is home before breaking in, such as uncollected mail or newspapers piled up outside.
By leaving some background noise inside your home, potential thieves may assume someone is still present and move on to another target. Of course, this method isn’t foolproof – a seasoned burglar could quickly tell if the noise is coming from a recording rather than an actual person. However, it’s worth trying as part of a comprehensive security plan.
How Do I Request Home Protection In Chicago?
If you’re worried about the security of your home in Chicago, S.O.S Private Security is a reliable company that can help protect your property. To request home protection from S.O.S., you can contact them through various communication channels. Call us at (708) 341-0928 or fill out the contact form on our homepage.
FAQ
How can I minimize the risk of theft in my home or business?
There are several measures you can take to minimize the risk of theft, such as locking all doors and windows, putting up warning signs, placing valuables further away from windows, installing light sensors with motion detectors, setting timers for indoor lighting, and installing alarms on doors and windows.
How can S.O.S Private Security Company help me protect my home?
S.O.S Private Security Company offers top-notch security services to help you feel safe and secure in your home. They provide trained security personnel who can monitor your property, detect and prevent any suspicious activities, and respond quickly to any emergencies.
Can I install door and window alarms myself, or do I need professional assistance?
You can easily install door and window alarms yourself without needing professional assistance.
How can putting up a secure fence on my property help prevent theft?
Putting up a sturdy fence is a physical barrier that deters criminals from entering your property. It also makes it more challenging for them to carry large items, making your home or business less attractive to potential burglars.