How to Protect Your Home and Outdoor Space from Burglars and Bad Design Choices

As a homeowner, you want to make sure that your property is safe and secure, both inside and out. But did you know that burglars often target homes with certain characteristics, and that some outdoor design choices can actually make your home more vulnerable to break-ins? In this article, we’ll explore the top signs that your home may be targeted by burglars, and provide tips on how to protect your outdoor space from bad design choices.

Top Signs Your Home May Be Targeted by Burglars

According to the FBI, there were over 673,000 reported burglaries in the United States in 2022. While burglaries can seem like random acts, they are often premeditated, with criminals targeting homes that appear vulnerable or easy to break into. Here are the top signs that your home may be targeted by burglars:

• Suspicious vehicles: If you notice strange cars or vans driving around your neighborhood, it could be a sign that burglars are casing the area.
• Strangers knocking on your door: While it may seem counterintuitive, burglars often knock on doors to see if anyone is home before breaking in.
• Unusual markings or items left around your property: Burglars may leave subtle signs or markings around a property to indicate that it’s a target.
• Tampering with your security systems: If you notice that your security cameras or alarm system have been tampered with, it could be a sign that burglars are trying to disable your security measures.

How to Protect Your Outdoor Space from Bad Design Choices

When it comes to designing an outdoor space, there are several common mistakes that can make your home more vulnerable to burglars. Here are some tips on how to avoid these mistakes and create a safe and secure outdoor space:

• Avoid using rugs that can’t handle a raindrop: Outdoor rugs should be durable and able to withstand the elements.
• Don’t use lights that are too bright: While it’s tempting to use bright lights to illuminate your outdoor space, this can actually make it more visible to burglars.
• Avoid plants that require too much maintenance: While plants can be a great addition to an outdoor space, they can also provide cover for burglars. Choose low-maintenance plants that won’t provide a hiding spot.
• Don’t use black-top dining tables: These can get too hot in the sun and can be a fire hazard.
• Avoid using plastic furniture: While plastic furniture may seem like a budget-friendly option, it can be flimsy and prone to breaking.
• Don’t install inflatable hot tubs: These can be a safety hazard and can also provide a hiding spot for burglars.
• Make sure your retaining walls are well-built: Retaining walls can be a safety hazard if they’re not built properly. Make sure to hire a professional to build your retaining walls.

Conclusion

Protecting your home and outdoor space from burglars and bad design choices requires some planning and attention to detail. By being aware of the top signs that your home may be targeted by burglars, and by avoiding common outdoor design mistakes, you can create a safe and secure space that you can enjoy for years to come.

Image: A well-designed outdoor space with a patio, plants, and a retaining wall.

Image: A burglar breaking into a home. Photo credit: Fox News

Image: A selection of outdoor rugs. Photo credit: Business Insider

Image: A person designing an outdoor space. Photo credit: Business Insider