Make Your Home or Business
Less Appealing to Burglars
Homeowners and business owners can reduce their vulnerability to burglary by making sure they have done all they can do to give the appearance of a property that practices good security measures. Deter potential burglars by making it as hard as possible for them to gain entry in your home or business.
Consider these target-hardening suggestions:
Lighting: Ensure that all entry points to the building are properly illuminated. Leave enough interior lighting to detect movement, and make sure blinds or curtains do not prevent detection of activity from outside.
Doors: Check for signs of weakness. Use updated, heavy duty locks that are in good working condition.
Locks: Make sure all doors, windows, and skylights are secured with the best possible locks. No lock is burglar proof, but the harder it is to gain entry, the longer it will take, which increases the chances of a burglar getting caught.
Windows: Secure windows in such a way that they cannot be easily defeated from outside. Make a habit of checking all of your windows on a daily basis. Burglars will look for open or unlocked windows. Businesses should keep valuable merchandise away from windows to prevent “smash and grabs.”
Alarm Systems: Install an alarm system. Research alarm companies and the types of alarms that fit your needs and budget. If utilizing an alarm system, post signage stating that the premises is protected by an alarm system.
Another suggestion is to schedule a free security survey for your home or business by contacting the Norfolk Police Department Crime Prevention Section at 757-664-6901. An officer trained in CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) principles will conduct an inspection of your home or business and make recommendations that can help make your building safer.