Burglary is the most common threat to our homes. Somewhere in the U.S., there’s a home burglary committed every 13-15 seconds. A burglary can have a major impact on your family’s sense of safety and well-being and can cause you to lose more than a few possessions.
There are many things you can do to enhance your home security and make your house burglary-resistant. Locking your doors at all times and calling the 9-1-1 when you see suspicious activity are valuable tips to protecting your home. We also encourage you to follow these other tips whenever you go outside. It’s far too easy to become complacent, thinking that, “It will happen to someone else.” Lock the door and take the key with you, even if you are just stepping next door or out mowing the back yard:
- Don’t put valuables where they can be seen from the window, especially items that can be easily carried.
- Be sure your garage door can be secured. Do not leave it open when you are away; an emptygarage broadcasts your absence.
- When you aren’t home, use a timer set to turn interior lights on and off at varying intervals as though your home was still occupied.
- Don’t keep large amounts of cash or really valuable jewelry around the house.
- If someone comes to your door asking to use the telephone, make the call yourself. Don’t invite them in.
- Don’t hide a spare key under the door mat or under a flower pot. Thieves know all the good hiding places.
- Plant thorny bushes under all windows. Trim back any trees or shrubs near doors and windows to eliminate hiding places for would-be thieves.
- Don’t leave ladders outside. Keep any tools that could be used to break in your home safely locked away in a garage or shed.
- Get a barking dog or “beware of dog” signs. If you own a dog and go out of town, have someone come in and care for your dog in your home.
- Always double check doors at night and lock all windows
- If you are away for the winter, arrange to have someone clear the snow from your driveway and sidewalks.
The Sioux County Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone that if you see something suspicious, please report it to our dispatchers. You can call 9-1-1 or use our non-emergency line by calling 712.737.3307.