Your burglary prevention checklist

While many burglary and theft prevention tips are straightforward, there are some you might overlook. By working through the items below, you’ll make your home less attractive to thieves:

• If you’re away for more than a day, ask a trusted neighbour to check on your home. Accumulated mail or newspapers are clear signs of an empty house.
• Use timers to turn lights on and off at different times, or have a neighbour do it for you. This helps create the impression that someone is home.
• Avoid posting about vacations or extended absences on social media, as this can alert potential burglars to your absence.
• Arrange for a neighbour to park in your driveway and have someone shovel your walks or mow your lawn if you’re away. This keeps your home looking lived-in.
• Install motion detector lights around entry points to eliminate dark hiding spots and deter intruders.
• Have a professional install a monitored intrusion alarm. Display a sign indicating your home is protected, as this can discourage would-be burglars.
• Keep curtains closed, but leave a small gap so some light is visible. Even if you’re just out for the evening, leave lights and a radio or TV on to suggest someone is home.
• Never leave a spare key hidden outside — burglars know all the common hiding spots. Instead, give a spare to a trusted neighbour or use a secure lockbox.
• Always lock all doors and windows, even if you’re only leaving for a short time or are elsewhere on your property. Don’t forget to secure garage doors and sliding doors with additional locks or bars.
• Avoid displaying your name on your house or mailbox. If a burglar learns your name, they may be able to find your phone number and call to check if you’re home.
• Break down boxes from new electronics or appliances before putting them out for recycling or garbage. Leaving them intact advertises valuable new items inside your home.
• Trim shrubs and bushes near windows and entryways to remove potential hiding spots for intruders and improve visibility around your home.
• Consider changing locks when you move into a new home or if your keys are lost or stolen, and periodically update passcodes on electronic locks and garage doors.
• Get to know your neighbours and participate in community watch programs if available. Neighbours who look out for each other can help deter suspicious activity.
• Review your home insurance policy to ensure your contents coverage is adequate in case you experience a burglary or theft.

It doesn’t take much to make your home less appealing to thieves. Even with the best precautions, unfortunate events can still happen. Fortunately, home insurance typically covers theft and burglary, giving you peace of mind if the unexpected occurs.

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