Fortify Your Home!
Ensuring the safety of your home is paramount in protecting your loved ones and valuables. In Washington State, understanding local laws and implementing effective security measures can significantly reduce the risk of burglary. Here are practical tips and legal considerations to help safeguard your residence.
1. Strengthen Entry Points
Doors: Install solid core or metal doors equipped with high-quality deadbolt locks. Ensure door frames are robust and hinges are protected to prevent forced entry. Switching your standard 1” screws for some longer 3” screws on your deadbolst and lock jamb with prevent forced entry.
Windows: Secure accessible windows with auxiliary locking devices. Options include safety glass, security film, or window bars, especially for basement or ground-level windows. 3M offers a window security film that prevents glass from shattering to mitigate forced entry.
Garage Doors: Ensure garage doors are properly secured with a deadbolt. Garage doors are very easy to manually open without a key. A proper deadbolt can help to mitigate manual entry.
Pet Doors: Secure large pet doors at night and when away from the home for extended periods of time. You can install a locking pet entryway that can be secured during these times.
2. Illuminate Your Property
Adequate lighting deters potential intruders.
Exterior Lighting: Install motion-activated lights around entrances and dark corners.
Interior Lighting: Use timers to simulate occupancy when you're away.
3. Manage Landscaping
Maintain your yard to eliminate hiding spots for burglars.
Trim Shrubs and Trees: Keep vegetation around windows and doors trimmed to enhance visibility. However, larger shrubs and trees on the property perimeter can act as a deterrent. Criminals are less inclined to burglarize a home that shows more obstacles than another.
Secure Tools and Ladders: Store items that could aid in a break-in, like ladders and gardening tools, in a locked shed or garage.
4. Install a Security System
A comprehensive security system can deter burglars and provide alerts during unauthorized access.
Alarm Systems: Choose a system with loud alarms and monitoring services.
Surveillance Cameras: When installing cameras, be mindful of Washington's privacy laws. The state requires consent from all parties when recording audio conversations.
5. Mark and Inventory Valuables
Documenting and marking your belongings aids in recovery if stolen.
Engraving: Use an engraver to mark valuables with your Washington State driver’s license number. For example, "WA-SMITHMA123RP-DL." This identification assists law enforcement in tracing recovered items.
Inventory List: Maintain a detailed list of valuables, including descriptions, serial numbers, and photos. Store this information securely, such as in a cloud-based service.
6. Exercise Caution with Social Media
Sharing travel plans or expensive purchases online can make your home a target.
Delay Posts: Share vacation photos and updates after returning home.
Limit Audience: Adjust privacy settings to control who sees your posts.
7. Engage with Your Community
Building relationships with neighbors fosters a supportive environment where residents look out for each other.
Neighborhood Watch: Participate in or establish a local watch program.
Communication: Inform trusted neighbors of your travel plans so they can monitor your property.
8. Understand Legal Implications
Familiarize yourself with Washington State laws related to home security.
Surveillance: Washington is a two-party consent state, meaning all parties must consent to audio recordings. Ensure your security cameras comply by disabling audio recording or obtaining consent.
Tenant Rights: If you're renting, review your lease agreement before installing security devices, as some landlords may have restrictions.
9. Utilize Law Enforcement Resources
Local police departments often provide resources and programs to assist in home security.
Vacation House Checks: Some departments offer to monitor your home during extended absences. For example, the Renton Police Department provides a Vacation House Check Program.
Crime Prevention Assessments: Request a home security evaluation from your local law enforcement agency.
10. Stay Informed and Vigilant
Regularly update your security measures and stay aware of local crime trends.
Community Alerts: Sign up for neighborhood alert systems to receive updates on local incidents.
Continuous Improvement: Periodically reassess and upgrade your home security strategies.
By implementing these measures and understanding Washington State's legal landscape, you can create a safer home environment. Remember, proactive steps and community engagement are key components in preventing burglaries.
For personalized security consultations, feel free to contact us at Princeps Consulting Group.