I was talking to a friend the other day who works in the home security industry. He shared with me some surprisingly simple tricks to thwart burglars.

People in Kitchen
Photo by Soroush Karimi on Unsplash
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The key is to make it inconvenient for the common thief. The first trick is to make it seem like the thief will have to deal with people. People are the most troublesome obstacle they face. A simple break-and-enter suddenly turns into a strategic planning operation once people are added to the mix.

Washing car in Driveway
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So, think of things you expect to see when someone is home: lights on, cars parked in the garage—little things like that signal someone is there. Use these signs to ensure your house looks occupied.

Motion of any type is a good deterrent. Lights that turn on or off, or even the shifting light from someone watching TV, can make a difference.

Landscaping in Front of House
Photo by Dillon Kydd on Unsplash
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That brings up the next strategy: if your home is open to prying eyes, it might seem like a negative, but the truth is nosy neighbors are your best friend when someone is trying not to be seen breaking into your home. Try to keep your landscaping clear so you can see your house, especially the porch if you tend to shop online and have packages delivered.

Read More: Southern Utah Burglar Attempts to Set Fire to $8 Million Home

If you’re gone for more than a day, remember the old tip: don’t let letters or packages pile up. Have a trusted family member or friend gather your deliveries so it’s not obvious you’re away.

It seems like burglary has become more common, so take the proper precautions to defend your home from ill intent.

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