Garage break-ins spiking due to attractive valuables inside
Improving Garage Security Against Burglaries
In an effort to enhance the security of your garage and home, it's essential to implement a series of effective strategies. These measures aim to create multiple barriers for potential burglars, improve detection, and reduce the chances of your garage or home being targeted.
First and foremost, locking doors securely is crucial. Opt for sturdy overhead doors, which are more effective at blocking intruders than simple gates or open entries. Additionally, lock all interior doors connecting the garage to your home to prevent burglars from accessing the house if they manage to get inside the garage.
Keeping valuables out of sight is another important aspect. Use frosted window films or blinds to block visibility through garage windows, ensuring that tools, bikes, or other valuables are not visible and do not act as an invitation for thieves.
Securing garage door openers and remotes is equally important. Never leave your garage door remote in plain sight, such as on a car dashboard. Store remotes in less visible places like the glove compartment. Regularly update keypad codes and avoid easy-to-guess combinations like birthdays or simple sequences.
Installing sensor-activated lighting around the garage’s exterior can deter intruders by illuminating the area when movement is detected.
Using surveillance cameras is another effective strategy. Install security cameras with visible signage near garage entrances to monitor the area and warn potential intruders. Smart cameras with person detection capabilities are recommended for better security.
Investing in an alarm system for the garage can provide immediate alerts during break-in attempts.
Maintaining your garage components is also vital. Regularly inspect and repair garage door springs, locks, and any sensors to ensure they function properly and do not provide an easy entry point for burglars.
Considering upgrading to smart garage door openers can offer remote monitoring and control via your smartphone, often with features like rolling code encryption and real-time security alerts.
Communal garages in apartment blocks present extra challenges for garage security. It's important not to let a car follow you through a gate into a garage unless you are sure that they are a resident. Trees and shrubs near entry points to garages and side doors should be kept tidy to ensure visibility.
Basement car parks are particularly susceptible to theft from storage cages and unlocked cars in communal garages. Unlocked side doors are the most common entry point for burglars. People with wire fences around their security cage in communal garages should line the cage with plastic sheeting or similar.
Lastly, using the free self-assessment tool "How Safe Is My Place" can help you better understand the safety of your home from burglary and improve security. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly improve the security of your garage and home.
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[2] How to Secure Your Garage (2020). Retrieved from https://www.safehome.org/garage-security/
[3] The Ultimate Guide to Garage Security (2021). Retrieved from https://www.alarmsystemstore.com/blogs/home-security/the-ultimate-guide-to-garage-security
[4] Garage Security: Tips to Protect Your Garage and Home (2021). Retrieved from https://www.alarmgrid.com/blog/garage-security-tips-to-protect-your-garage-and-home
[5] Smart Garage Door Openers: Are They Worth It? (2020). Retrieved from https://www.alarmgrid.com/blog/smart-garage-door-openers-are-they-worth-it
- To strengthen the overall home safety, consider implementing strategies that secure the garage, such as installing sensor-activated lighting, using surveillance cameras, and investing in an alarm system.
- It's advisable to maintain a lifestyle that prioritizes home-and-garden security, which includes keeping valuables out of sight, securing garage door openers and remotes, and regularly inspecting garage components for proper function.
