Prevention is better than cure for stopping crime, and nowhere is that more true than with burglar deterrents. From motion lights to hi-tech door entry systems, all of these systems have their place, and almost all of them can help to discourage thieves.
But what is the most effective burglar deterrent? Are there any options that do the job better than the rest?
Most Effective Burglar Deterrents
1. CCTV Cameras
Most burglars aim to avoid risky break-ins that are likely to attract attention. CCTV cameras can catch a thief in the act and reveal their identity. Prosecutors can even use CCTV footage as evidence in court.
CCTV monitoring can be a great way to put burglars off. Surveillance cameras can also be connected to an intruder alarm, which will alert the emergency services of any incidents as soon as they happen. All of this makes CCTV one of the best burglar deterrents ever invented.
2. A Barking Dog
You might have heard of the five-finger discount, but did you know it can be prevented with a four-legged burglar deterrent? It turns out that man's best friend could be a huge help in keeping your property secure. According to this Guardian article, barking dogs and CCTV cameras are the top burglar deterrents that thieves themselves fear the most!
As it turns out, even a yappy little chihuahua can be adept at scaring off criminals. This is because burglars really don't want to deal with the inconvenience and hassle of a barking dog. It's loud, it's distracting, and it attracts attention from passers-by, making it more likely that the culprit will be caught red-handed.
According to an article from The Eco Experts, three out of every five burglaries are successful - but a dog can act as a top burglar deterrent before they've even attempted a break-in!
3. Movement-Activated Security Lights
Burglars prefer to operate in darkness. Like barking dogs, bright lights attract attention. They also make it very easy for onlookers to see what's happening and maybe even get a look at the burglar's face.
Motion lights (i.e. lights that come on automatically when movement is detected) can be an effective burglar deterrent on their own, but they work best when used in conjunction with other security solutions, such as...
4. Intruder Alarms
Scientific research published in Security Journal in 2013 identified that there are fewer thefts in areas with more security alarms.
Also, a study of 422 burglars revealed that 60% would avoid a property with a burglar alarm.
Burglar alarms make a continuous loud noise, which can attract passersby, and some models are covered by monitoring teams who can call the police for you. All in all, a burglar alarm is a truly great burglar deterrent.
5. Deadbolts
Making getting into your home more trouble than it's worth is an easy and efficient way to deter burglars from targeting your home. Adding a bolt is also a great way to reinforce weak spots on doors, be they front doors, patio, French windows, or even regular windows. Picking a lock can take time a burglar doesn't want to spend, while kicking in a door locked by a bolt will create more noise than the burglar desires. A bolt lock is therefore a top burglar deterrent for your property.
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Here at IDS Security Systems Ltd, we use the latest digital signalling equipment to ensure that the relevant emergency services are informed as soon as your intruder alarm is activated. We also offer a 24-hour monitoring service for maintained customers.
We install and maintain a wide range of security systems, including:
Get in touch today, or click the link below to request a FREE security survey so that one of our experienced engineers can advise you on the best solution for your property.
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