With the holiday season in full swing, along with trips to visit family and winter vacations, it’s important for everyone to take stock of their home security.
Each year, there are over 2.5 million burglaries across the U.S., with Tennessee reporting 22,517 and Georgia announcing 18,452 burglaries in 2021.
To protect your home, today’s technology allows for a variety of customizable options ranging from doorbell and outdoor cameras to motion detectors you can easily monitor from your smartphone.
Full home security systems are more affordable than ever, with local companies offering the peace of mind of professional installation and monitoring with pricing similar to self-installed systems.
Additionally, security systems are not just an option for homeowners anymore. Wireless home security systems offer protection for renters without any damage to leased property and the convenience of being able to move the system with you.
Proper outdoor lighting is also especially important in deterring potential theft. If your home doesn’t have adequate lighting, some of the options you might want to consider include motion detecting lights around your home and solar powered pathway lights and spotlights to keep entrances well-lit and less enticing to criminals.
Joe Bozich, president of Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Chattanooga, says two-thirds of thefts and burglaries are decided randomly and on the spot.
“They want ease and no detection. A lit entryway, path or home will most likely make them move on and search for an easier target. So light it right through the night.”
Studies suggest lighting not only acts as a deterrent of crime, Bozich adds, but also improves community cohesion and pride in homeownership.
As always, make it a habit to lock any vehicles in your driveway or parked at your home and remove any valuables. Theft of personal property from vehicles is the most common type of theft, with police nationwide reporting more than 1 million in 2020.
Motor vehicle thefts numbered over 20,000 in Tennessee and over 18,000 in Georgia in 2021.
If you’ll be away during the holidays, put a hold on your mail and ask a friend to watch for any deliveries. Mail and packages piling up at your door or in your mailbox can alert criminals that you’re out of town.
It’s also a good idea to leave a light on in the home, or use timers to turn on lights in the evening, and ask a neighbor to keep an eye out for anything suspicious.
After you’ve installed a security system, proper lighting or other safety features, notify your insurance company. Many insurance policies offer discounts for these preventive measures.
To find out more about home security and outdoor lighting, visit the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga’s member directory at www.HBAGC.net to find a list of qualified, local professionals to help with your needs.