5 Common Home Security Mistakes and How to Avoid Them | By Jordan Frankel

Burglary and other property crimes will always exist, but you can reduce your risk by avoiding common home security mistakes. Learning from others’ missteps can help you safeguard your property and loved ones.

Burglary is a crime that can happen to anyone, yet many homeowners underestimate their risk. According to the FBI’s 2017 Uniform Crime Report (UCR), property crimes, including burglary, have declined over the last five years. However, with 1,402,000 burglaries reported in 2017, the risk remains significant. More than 67% of these burglaries involved residential properties, making it essential for homeowners to understand how to protect their homes.

Criminals often target homes with weak or overlooked security measures, making it easier for them to gain entry undetected. By identifying and addressing common home security mistakes, you can significantly decrease the likelihood of becoming a victim. Below, we discuss five of the most frequent errors homeowners make and provide practical solutions to enhance your home’s safety.

5 Common Home Security Mistakes that Put Residents at Risk

Many burglaries occur due to avoidable errors. Residential security expert Jordan Frankel has identified five mistakes frequently made by burglary victims. Avoiding these pitfalls can significantly enhance your home’s security.

1. Failing to Lock Windows and Doors

One of the simplest yet most overlooked mistakes is leaving doors and windows unlocked. According to FBI data, over 30% of burglaries result from residents neglecting to secure their entry points.

Home Security Tip: Always lock your doors and windows, even when you’re home. Before going to bed or leaving the house, check all locks.

2. Relying Solely on Standard Locks

Standard locks may give a false sense of security. Most burglars can easily break through these weak points. Relying on them alone is a critical home security mistake.

Home Security Tip: Invest in high-quality security devices designed to fortify entry points. For example, the OnGARD security door brace strengthens doors, while BurglarGARD window security film makes glass more resistant to shattering.

3. Leaving the Alarm System Off

Many homeowners install alarm systems but fail to activate them consistently. This oversight leaves homes vulnerable, especially at night or when residents are away.

Home Security Tip: An alarm system can deter intruders and alert you to a break-in. Turn on your alarm every time you leave the house and when you’re home, especially overnight.

4. Opening the Door to Strangers

Burglars often disguise themselves as salespeople, utility workers, or even police officers to gain access to homes. Opening the door to strangers is one of the riskiest home security mistakes.

Home Security Tip: Never open the door without verifying who is on the other side. Install a wireless surveillance system with a portable LCD monitor to check visitors from any room in your house. Teach family members, especially children, to follow this rule.

5. Sharing Vacation Plans on Social Media

Social media has become a treasure trove for burglars seeking empty homes. Posting about your travel plans alerts criminals that your home will be unoccupied.

Home Security Tip: Avoid announcing vacations or extended absences online. Wait until you return to share photos or updates. If you need to inform someone of your plans, do so privately.

Learn From the Common Home Security Mistakes of Others

Victims often realize too late how avoidable their situation could have been. One example comes from a Fox5 News report in San Diego, California, where intruders broke into a home at night. The criminals assaulted the male victim and attempted to kidnap him. After the incident, a concerned neighbor stated, “We’ve had people come to our door, try the door, and they can’t get in.” This neighbor began taking steps to secure her home after witnessing the crime.

Stories like this emphasize the importance of proactive security measures. Avoiding common home security mistakes can make all the difference in protecting your home and family.

Additional Tips to Improve Home Security

In addition to addressing the mistakes above, consider implementing these strategies:

Strengthen Entry Points

• Replace hollow doors with solid wood or metal ones.
• Use heavy-duty deadbolts and reinforce door frames.

Enhance Visibility

• Install outdoor motion-sensor lights to illuminate dark areas around your property.
• Trim bushes and trees near windows and doors to eliminate hiding spots.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

• Install surveillance cameras at key entry points.
• Consider a smart home system that allows you to monitor your property remotely.

Educate Your Household

• Discuss security protocols with family members.
• Practice safety drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

Why Planning Ahead Matters

Criminals often look for easy targets. By addressing common home security mistakes, you can make your home less appealing to intruders. Proactive measures like installing security devices, creating visibility, and educating your family not only protect your home but also give you peace of mind.

Remember, the more challenging you make it for burglars, the less likely they are to target your residence. Take action today to secure what matters most.