Looking at Your Home Through the Eyes of a Burglar
Learn How a Smart Home Security System Can Protect Your Home and Loved Ones
In September 2022, police reported on a rash of residential burglaries in the Bay Area that they believe are part of an organized crime ring. They specifically come to the U.S. to target affluent communities and usually break glass to gain entry into a home. The police department encouraged homeowners to check their surveillance footage, looking for suspicious vehicles or people.
We share this information with you not to alarm you but to increase awareness. There are steps you can take to help create a safe haven—what your home is meant to be. Let’s look at a typical burglary, what you can do to prevent it, and how a home security system offers protection.
SEE ALSO: Is Your Home Surveillance System Missing Something?
From the Eyes of a Criminal
Studies on criminal activity have shown some common traits. First, burglars are drawn to homes without security systems. In fact, homes without these systems are 300% more likely to be burglarized, according to the National Council for Home Safety and Security.
Additionally, 95% of all home invasions occur via forceful entry, including kicking in a door, breaking a window, and picking a lock. The most common entryway for burglars is the patio doors, followed by windows and the front door.
Proactive Measures to Enhance Security
Despite the protection a security system provides, it’s estimated that only 17% of homes have one. A robust home security system consists of motion detectors, glass break sensors, door and window sensors, security cameras, and an alarm. Yard signs or window stickers that warn intruders can also serve as deterrents.
Today’s smart security systems also include digital tripwires. Whenever someone sets off a sensor or crosses a tripwire, you receive an alert on your smartphone. If the system detects an intrusion, it reacts with audible and visible alarms and begins recording.
The live video feed pops up on your phone, so you can see what's taking place, and the integrated microphone and speaker enable you to let the intruder know they've been spotted. For those who choose remote monitoring, an alert is sent to professionals at the monitoring station who have their eyes on the situation and can determine if a call to local law enforcement is needed.
Presence Simulation
One of the most important defenses is presence simulation. A smart security system incorporates lighting, shades, and AV equipment. When the last person leaves the house, whether for a few hours or weeks, they tap the “Away” button on an elegant in-wall keypad by the door.
This initiates a series of actions, including locking doors and setting the alarm. Your smart home will also randomly turn lights on and off, raise and lower shades, and turn televisions or streaming music on and off, making it look like someone’s home.
At Hermary’s, we create customized smart homes that make life easier, more enjoyable, and safer. To learn more about smart home security systems or to schedule a complimentary consultation, contact Hermary’s today.
