Something that a lot of people don’t realize is that you’re actually MORE likely to become the victim of a burglary or home invasion during the summer months of the year, not less. It’s true – according to one recent study, the highest percentage of burglaries actually occur during the summer, no matter what type of home you have or which part of the country you live in.
Summer also presents its share of unique challenges because we literally change the way we live our lives as the seasons do the same. Based on that, there are a few summer security tips in particular that you’ll definitely want to be aware of moving forward.
Watch Those Windows
One of the major changes you make to your lifestyle during the summer is also one that you probably don’t think too much about until it’s far too late: you start opening your windows more often to let the cool breeze flow through your home. This can be a great way to avoid turning the AC on during a hot summer day… but it’s also an invitation for disaster if you’re not careful.
Always, always, always remember to close and LOCK your windows before you leave your home during the summer. Your windows were probably locked all winter, which means you haven’t really “re-trained” yourself to think about them yet. But windows are nothing if not an excellent opportunity for an intruder to get into your home while you’re not around, so you always need to be mindful. For additional protection, consider installing motion detectors around your first-floor windows, too.
That Summer Lifestyle
As the weather starts getting nicer outside, you’ll probably be bringing all that lawn furniture, those gas grills and similar types of items out of storage – if you haven’t already done so. What you might not realize is that all of these items can attract their fair share of thieves, which is why you should always be extra careful.
Just because lawn furniture is on a deck on the rear of your home does NOT mean someone won’t attempt to steal them. Pay extra attention to these types of items and if you really want to be careful, consider installing security cameras on the exterior of your home as well.
The Light is Your Friend
Yes, it’s true that the days are longer during the summer and that the warm sun will be shining high in the sky for far longer than it would during November and December… but you should NOT let this lull you into a false sense of security.
Just because it isn’t dark yet when you get home from work doesn’t mean you can let your guard down. Never forget that exterior lights are often a terrific way to deter intruders as they often present more trouble than they’re worth for someone looking for a quick smash and grab. You should also consider investing in a “smart” or “remote control” exterior lighting system that allows you to create a schedule and turn your lights on either automatically or via your smartphone.
Not only will this guarantee that you’re always protected no matter what time you get home, but it’s also a terrific opportunity to make it look like someone is around – even when you’re not.