SHERIFF CARMINE MARCENO’S SEPTEMBER 2024 SAFETY & SECURITY TIP: IMPROVING HOME SECURITY
Home burglary results in losses exceeding $3 billion, in the United States, each year.
Based upon reports, a home burglary occurs every 15 seconds in the United States and that someone is at home 27.6% of the time. Despite images of burglars creeping through backyards in the middle of the night, statistics show that the majority of burglaries occur between 6:00 am and 6:00 pm…when homes are often unoccupied.
Disconcerting?
While these crimes have decreased in Lee County, it is prudent to discuss proactive measures that can be taken to reduce or eliminate the likelihood of victimization.
Preventative measures worth considering:
The addition of security cameras goes a long way toward preventing criminal activity and assisting in the investigation and prosecution of criminal offenses. Video doorbell cameras and strategically placed external cameras often dissuade would-be criminals.
Exterior lighting is perhaps the easiest and most inexpensive way to discourage criminals. Well-lit areas increase visibility through windows, improve video surveillance quality and make your home a less desirable target.
Landscaping is a wonderful way to add “curb-appeal” to your home. Unfortunately, overgrown shrubs and trees that block windows and doorways or cast large shadows allow criminals to move about your property without being seen. Additionally, unmowed lawns often give the impression that the homeowner is away.
Upgrading door and window locks, as well as securing sliding glass doors, will prevent easy access to your home. Most sliding glass doors have poor quality locks. They are susceptible to pry bars, hammers and screwdrivers and can usually be opened rather easily. Secure these doors using security bars, pins or upgraded locks.
Whenever you leave your home…even if just to quickly visit a neighbor…LOCK YOUR DOORS AND TAKE A KEY.
Don’t leave valuables near windows where they can easily be seen and taken.
Floridians like to leave their garage doors open. Please reconsider this practice.
Hiding a spare key under a door mat or in a nearby planter makes for easy access to your home.
Leaving ladders around your home assist burglars intent on entering second-story windows…yours or nearby homes. Secure ladders in a closed garage when not in use.
Too many Lee County residents leave their vehicles unlocked overnight. Many contain garage door openers. Lock your vehicles whenever you exit and take any and all valuables inside with you.
Break down cardboard boxes from expensive purchases such as large-screen televisions, computers, etc. When left curbside, they serve to advertise your new purchase.
Report suspicious activity to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office or to your local law enforcement agency.