In central Pennsylvania, burglary is a felony crime that involves unlawfully entering someone’s occupied space for the purpose of committing a crime inside. Usually, the crime is theft, but burglars can also be charged if they intend to commit assault, arson or another unlawful activity.
Inexpensive Ways to Secure Your House
Burglary robs victims of their possessions as well as their peace of mind. Fortunately, there are easy ways to make your home safer, and they start with your doors and windows:
- Make your doors sturdy: Inspect the frames and the doors for any damage and replace them if they represent a weak point. Ensure the hinges are sturdy and that no one can enter your home by reaching through the mail slot or breaking glass in or next to the door.
- Upgrade your locks: Install a deadbolt and strike plate for added security, or turn to smart locks for a modern solution.
- Lock windows and doors: When you’re home, lock your windows and doors. Use a dowel in sliding doors and windows and replace regular window latches with versions that can lock.
- Keep an eye on your keys: If you’re moving into a new house or have lost your keys recently, replace the locks on your home.
Your windows and doors are how most burglars enter your home, so securing them will make you safer. However, there are other steps you can take for additional protection from burglary, such as:
- Get technology: Security cameras, alarm systems, and sensors for your doors and windows will discourage thieves. You can even get motion detectors in your home, many of which come with apps to help you monitor your property while you’re away.
- Make your home unappealing to burglars: Use motion-sensor lights and keep your house well-lit. Remove bushes and trees so would-be burglars have no place to hide.
- Get to know your neighbors: Consider joining a neighborhood watch organization or exchange contact information with nearby homeowners so you can alert each other if you see any suspicious activity.
- Don’t show off your toys: Don’t make expensive items easily visible from the street. If you get a new TV or other big-ticket item, be sure to break down the box and put it in the trash instead of leaving the packaging visible.
- Safeguard your garage: In many central Pennsylvania houses, the garage leads directly to the home. Even when this is not the case, most garages contain plenty of valuables. Always lock your garage door and any entries leading from the garage.
Protection From Burglary After the Fact
Even when you take every precaution, determined burglars may gain access to your property. Your best protection against this eventuality is the right homeowners insurance policy, which will reimburse you for damaged or stolen property.
If you’re interested in a homeowners policy for your central Pennsylvania residence, get a quote from Strock Insurance or contact us to find out more about which plan may meet your needs. Strock Insurance has been helping central Pennsylvania homeowners in Camp Hill, Harrisburg and surrounding areas since 1983.
