Figures from the latest intrusion statistics are alarming! The number of domestic break-ins is as high as 17 years ago. In 2015, more than 167,000 cases were registered with the police in Germany, which corresponds to an increase of almost ten percent compared to the previous year.
The figure has increased for the ninth time in a row. Most of the burglaries occur during the day before 6 pm — when occupants are at work or shopping. Intruders usually force their way in through poorly secured patio doors and windows or choose the direct path through the front door. Anyone who wants to save themselves from material loss and mental stress should secure their property.
1. Secure doors and windows
Most intruders take only a few minutes to get into the house. If this does not happen right away, they usually turn to the next, less well-protected building. So secure your windows and doors against intrusions. This applies especially to areas of poor visibility, such as patios and courtyards. Especially for older doors it is important to add additional locks. At least on the ground floor, all window handles should be lockable, suitable fittings can be retrofitted. There are even models with built-in alarm function.
2. Make it look as though someone is at home
When you are away, trick would-be intruders into thinking that you are at home. This could be done by using automatic light controls, for example. Smart home systems such as Homematic IP or Osram Lightify make this possible. Equally useful are automatically closing shutters and TV simulators. In the outdoor area motion controlled light has been proven as an effective deterrent.3. Surveillance
Whether to monitor the entrance area, the garden or the garage: With IP surveillance cameras you can keep all of the area in view. Live images can be streamed directly to your smartphone. Further effect: Highly visible security cameras are an effective deterrent against opportunist burglars. In combination with the appropriate warning signs , they indicate an obstacle that needs to be avoided.
4. Alarms
If all the measures taken do not deter an intruder and he makes it to the door or window, an alarm system is the last bastion. A loud sound causes quite a stir, causing the intruder to usually escape. Smart systems send a push-message directly to your mobile phone about an unwanted visit and alert a security service or the police.
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