Security for your home or business
Is the security for your home or business up to par?
Are your security measures for you home or business good enough to deter potential thiefs or burglars?
Increase in theft crimes in recent weeks.
Recently, we have seen a rash of thefts from homes and businesses. Some of the most common thefts we are seeing are:
- Car break ins
- Catalytic converter thefts
- Car thefts
- Shed break ins
- Theft of items from outside of homes/business buildings
What can you do to increase security to prevent or deter the above crimes?
For car break ins, the number one thing you can do is to lock your car doors. The police state that the overwhelming majority of car break ins happen to an unlocked car. Most of these criminals are looking for easy access and do not want to draw attention by breaking windows. For the ones that do break windows, it is usually because there is something valuable in plain site.
So the best advice to deter car break ins is to lock your doors and put any valuable items out of plain site, lie in your trunk.
For shed break ins, a good lock can deter the common thief. Again, most criminal are looking for convenience. And the harder you can make it to break in, the less likely you will be to have a break in. Adding any level of security can make a thief move on to the next target.
Keep in mind a couple of things regarding insurance coverage for the contents that you may have in your shed. Most people think that everything they keep in their shed will be covered on their homeowners insurance policy. That assumption is not always correct though.
Real claims scenario:
We had a scenario recently in Severna Park, Maryland where someone had dirt bikes stolen from their shed and wanted to report a homeowners claim.
Unfortunately these types of motorized vehicles are specifically excluded from the homeowners insurance policy. If you have motorcycles, ATV’s, golf carts, etc., they will not be covered on your home insurance for liability or physical damage/theft.
You will need to get a separate Motorcycle/ATV insurance policy for coverage. For these off road vehicles, you can list minor children as operators and we suggest you do so. By doing this, you can also add the coverage to your umbrella insurance policy, which can be very important in protecting your family’s assets.
Steps to take to deter all of the above scenarios:
Install good outdoor lighting:
Thieves love to operate in the dark. Shine some light on them by installing a good outdoor lighting system will deter them from committing a crime on your property.
Motion sensors are ideal for this purpose since they will only turn on when there is movement detected in their vicinity, This provides an extra layer of security against potential intruders. Furthermore, placing lights at entry points (such as gates and walkways) allows you to see who is accessing your property after dark.
Install a security system
Security systems such as CCTV cameras, alarms and motion detectors can be used to monitor your home or business and detect any suspicious activity.
The presence of a security system also acts as a deterrent, making potential burglars think twice before attempting to break-in. Put signs up in your yard and on your business letting potential burglars know they are being monitored.
Utilize locks
Investing in high-quality locks for all doors and windows is one of the best ways to increase security around your home or business.
Consider purchasing double-cylinder deadbolt locks for main entry points and window locks for ground floor windows. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that all exterior doors have a secure locking mechanism that cannot be easily forced open.
Utilize fences and gates:
Installing fencing and/or gates around the perimeter of your property can provide an extra level of protection against trespassers and burglars who could otherwise gain easy access inside your home or business space.
If possible, opt for tall fences with spikes on top as these will provide additional deterrents against potential intruders.
Conclusion
Security is essential for any property and can be improved through various measures mentioned above. Taking that small extra step to improve security around your home or business can save you a lot of time, money and frustration in the long run.
If you need a referral to any of the following to help with your security, please let me know:
- Security Company
- Fence Installer/Contractor
- Locksmith
- Lighting contractor/electrician
Contact Huff Insurance
If you have any questions on this article or on any insurance coverage, please reach out to us at 410-647-1111.