Three Things Every Homeowner Should Do After A Break-In
Each day, a countless number of people have their homes burglarized. A home burglary doesn't just leave you feeling unsafe and victimized, but it can also make the place you once called home, not feel so home-like after all. After a break-in, it's imperative that you know what to do to make your home feel safe and comfortable again.
Research The Point Of Entry
One of the first things you want to do is research the point of entry for the break-in. Finding out exactly how the intruder was able to gain access to your home is a crucial step in preventing a future intrusion. For example, did the burglar gain access to your home through an unlocked screen and patio door in your basement?
In this case, this would mean you need to make a greater effort to ensure all the doors and windows in your home remain locked. Whatever the issue, make sure you focus on correcting it. You should be able to retrieve point of entry information from the police report that was completed when you reported the burglary.
Set-up A Security Inspection
Your next step should include a security home inspection performed by a locksmith. Security inspections help you highlight safety concerns that you might have been unaware of or overlooked. One area of concern that could come up during an inspection are worn locks.
The average homeowner places very little focus on the condition of their locks, but just like any other mechanism, locks also have an expiration date. When your locks are worn or outdated, an intruder can easily gain access to your home with little effort. Home inspections create a blueprint of your home's safety so that you know what areas you need to focus on upgrading. Contact a local locksmith, like The Lock Shop, to schedule an inspection.
Speak With Neighbors
When your home is burglarized, don't keep this information to yourself. It's a good idea to share this information with your neighbors. This is important for several reasons. First, you can alert other neighbors of the potential threat so that they can take measures to protect their home and prevent a break-in.
Secondly, your conversations can help establish a watch out patrol for the area. When your neighbors are aware of a potential threat they will be more diligent when it comes to highlighting suspicious activity and they can quickly notify another neighbor if there seems to be unusual activity around their home.
After a break-in you don't have to remain a victim. You can take measures to protect your home and prevent another incident in the future.