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No one likes to think about it, but home break-ins happen more often than you’d expect. 

In fact, according to the FBI, a burglary occurs in the U.S. about once every 30 seconds. And while living in a safe neighborhood helps, the truth is no home is completely immune to break-ins.

The good news? 

Most burglars look for easy targets. If your home is well-secured, they’re more likely to move on to another house. Here are 10 expert-approved ways to protect your home from burglars, straight from a professional locksmith in Brooklyn.

1. Upgrade to High-Security Locks

If you’re still using basic deadbolts or old locks, you’re making things easy for burglars.

  • Upgrade to high-security locks that are pick-resistant and drill-proof.
    Consider smart locks with keyless entry and remote access.
  • Use deadbolts with at least a 1-inch throw for extra strength.

A professional locksmith can help you install stronger, more reliable locks that burglars won’t be able to bypass easily.

2. Reinforce Your Doors

A strong lock is only as good as the door it’s attached to. Many burglars simply kick in doors with weak frames or hollow cores.

  • Replace hollow-core doors with solid wood or metal doors.
  • Install a reinforced strike plate to strengthen the door frame.
  • Add a door security bar to prevent forced entry.

If your door isn’t strong enough, even the best lock won’t protect you!

3. Secure Your Windows

Believe it or not, many break-ins happen because windows are left unlocked. Even if your windows are locked, most standard window latches can be pried open easily.

  • Install window locks or security bars for added protection.
  • Use shatterproof glass or window security film to prevent easy break-ins.
  • Close your blinds or curtains at night to keep valuables out of sight.

Burglars look for homes with visible weaknesses, and unsecured windows are one of their favorite targets.

4. Install a Home Security System

A home security system is one of the best deterrents against break-ins. Studies show that homes with security systems are 3x less likely to be burglarized than those without.

  • Use alarm systems with motion detectors and door/window sensors.
  • Install security cameras around entry points.
  • Post security system signs and stickers to make burglars think twice.

5. Improve Outdoor Lighting

Most break-ins happen at night because burglars don’t want to be seen. A well-lit home is a major deterrent since intruders prefer the cover of darkness.

  • Install motion-activated lights near doors, garages, and pathways.
  • Use smart lighting systems that turn on automatically when you’re away.
  • Keep front and backyard lights on at night to eliminate hiding spots.

6. Don’t Hide Spare Keys Outside

Hiding a spare key under the doormat, in a flowerpot, or above the doorframe? Bad idea. 

Burglars know exactly where to look.

  • Skip the obvious hiding spots.
  • Use a keyless smart lock instead of a spare key.
  • Give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or family member instead.

7. Keep Your Garage Secure

Many homeowners focus on their front door but forget about the garage — a common entry point for burglars.

  • Always keep your garage door closed, even when you’re home.
  • Upgrade to a smart garage door opener that alerts you when it’s left open.
  • Secure the door between your garage and home with a deadbolt.

8. Be Smart About Social Media

Love posting vacation pics on Instagram? Be careful! If burglars see that you’re out of town, they’ll know your house is empty.

  • Avoid posting your travel plans or check-ins in real-time.
  • Make your social media accounts private.
  • Wait until you’re back home to share vacation photos.

The last thing you want is to accidentally invite burglars to an unoccupied home.

9. Get a Dog (or Make It Look Like You Have One)

Burglars hate attention, and nothing grabs attention like a barking dog. Even if you don’t have a dog, you can fake it with:

  • “Beware of Dog” signs on fences and doors.
  • Motion-activated dog barking alarms.
  • Dog toys or bowls near entry points.

10. Re-key or Change Your Locks When You Move In

If you just moved into a new home, you have no idea how many copies of your keys are out there. The previous owners, contractors, or even neighbors might still have a key!

  • Re-key your locks as soon as you move in.
  • Upgrade to smart locks for keyless access.
  • Consider high-security locks that can’t be picked or bumped.

Also Read: What to Do If Your Key Breaks in the Ignition

Protect Your Home with Instalock Locksmith

Securing your home requires taking action before a break-in happens.

Want to make your home burglar-proof? Call Instalock Locksmith today and get expert home security solutions from a trusted locksmith in Brooklyn!