Most homeowners go through times when they leave their home more vulnerable to burglary than others: traveling during the holidays or for vacation, during the spring and fall when the weather is just right to throw open your windows. Burglars are waiting for these key times to pounce, but taking a few precautions will greatly reduce the chances that you'll be victimized.
Windows, Lighting, and Fences
The basics of home security begin long before you ever consider installing an alarm system.
Windows that have sound locks and catches that keep them from opening more than a few inches already go a long way to deterring would-be burglars. New windows are also going to be more energy efficient.
Exterior lighting with motion detection will make burglars easy to see at night, increasing the chances that he will get spooked or that a neighbor will spot him and call the police.
Fences give your home an added measure of privacy and can provide an obstacle not only to the would-be burglar but also allow you to let your children play in the yard without worrying about them wandering off.
Remember the vast majority of burglars are opportunistic and will stake out the condition of your home before deciding on whether or not they want to hit your home.
Alarm Systems
While alarm systems offer little physical protection, they offer considerable psychological deterrence for the average burglar. Homeowners and police officers believe alarm systems make homes safer and the statistics bare that out. A burglar entering your home often dissuaded just from the noise and attention the alarm creates. Even if the burglar is intent on robbing your home, studies show he will often take less in an effort to leave the premises sooner.
At the same time, nothing increases the chances of catching the perpetrator more than a good alarm system and an efficient police response. The cost of an alarm system varies widely and, for the most part, follows the maxim of getting what you paid for. The good news is that new technology and marketplace competition have driven down the prices of alarm systems in general. In the previous decade, the cost of the average alarm system dropped by one-third.
Being at Home Even When You're Not
The next important step in creating excellent home security is ensuring it looks like you're at home. If you're going out of town, make sure you find a neighbor to pick up your newspapers and/or mail. If you can't find a neighbor, you should be able to call the post office and newspaper to put a temporary hold on their delivery. Also with your neighbors, you might ask the person who lives next door if they're willing to park their car in your driveway while you're gone. More than just leaving lights on, you should buy timers for your lights so they occasionally turn on and off while you're gone. If you're not going to be gone long, leave the TV or stereo on loud enough so it can be heard by someone approaching the house.
It Can Happen to Anyone
No matter how well protected you make your home, you can still be the victim of a burglary and should prepare for the possibility. Create a subtle but distinctive mark on valuable items. Some police departments recommend you etch your social security number into these items. Create a written log of your valuables for insurance purposes. You may also want to take pictures of visually identifiable items, such as artwork or antiques. 
Marcus Pickett is a professional freelance writer for the home remodeling industry. He has published more than 600 articles on both regional and national topics within the home improvement industry.
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