Things You Do Everyday Might Attract Burglars...

While we would all like to think that our home and our possessions we keep within it are safe from harm, the truth of the matter may disturb most people. We install deadbolts on all the doors, thinking that's enough. We have a neighbor check the mail and pick up the newspapers while we're on vacation, believing that's all it takes to deter a burglar. What we fail to realize is that there are a number of steps we  do take that actually make our homes more susceptible to break ins than we may think.

Nearly every homeowner keeps a spare house key, particularly when their are children in the home that may need to gain entrance at times when they don't have a key on them. What you may not realize is that the first place a would be thief will look for that spare key is under the welcome mat. This common 'hiding' place is the worst possible spot to use. If you want to get a little more creative, don't bother with moving it underneath a flower pot, likely to be their second place to check. There are a variety of products on the market, such as a hollow rock that can be used to store a spare key. The catch is, the lock can only be opened with the correct combination, ensuring that only the right people have access to it.

We always make sure it's lights out on our way out the door. After all, every penny saved on the monthly electric bill is important. The problem lies in the fact that someone casing out the house will see every light in the house is turned off and know for sure that no one is home. Invest in a timer instead that will periodically turn various lights in the house off and on. This provides random light activity throughout the house, without using as much electricity as you would by leaving the lights on non-stop.

Regardless of how many deadbolts you have installed, they do little good if you don't use them. It is crucial to ensure all the doors in the home are locked at night and when you leave the house. If you have multiple locks on the door, don't just rely on the main lock for security. Instead, make sure you lock them all, particularly the deadbolts. Also check periodically to ensure all of the windows are properly bolted to prevent easy access.

While you've now secured the inside of the house, it's time to take a look outdoors. Always make sure items such as ladders or tools are put away in the garage or other secure location when not in use. Leaving items such as these laying out offers a would be thief a selection of tools that he can easily use to assist him with his break in.

Always use caution when selecting your landscaping. Shrubs and trees planted in front of windows can sometimes deter a thief, particularly if they tend to be on the thorny side. The same items planted near the front door, however, offer an ideal method of concealment for someone lying in wait for you to return home or trying to break in through the front door without being seen.

By taking just a few simple precautions, you can greatly reduce the appeal of your home to unwanted 'guests'.