With the holiday season upon us, you or your friends/loved ones may be planning to go out of town in the near future. Leaving your home for any period of time, especially multiple days, can make you a bit nervous. We've all experienced those seconds of 'did I lock the door?' or 'is the garage door closed?'. Even if you aren't traveling, the reassurance of feeling safer can go a long way.

Being the victim of a break-in is something that no one should ever have to experience. The sad fact of the matter is that over 80 percent of break-ins and burglaries could have easily been prevented with some simple and inexpensive safeguards. In fact, most of the more expensive home security solutions are often not worth the cost as cheaper alternatives can be just as effective. These handy tips are sure to give you a better piece of mind while also being easy on the wallet.

1. SIMlock- Give your deadbolt extra security by installing one of these. It's small, easy to install and makes your lock unpickable.


2. Motion detector lights - Simple and easy deterrents to thieves who try to remain hidden.


3. Patio door guard - This can be a weak spot for some homes; avoid this being a target by installing an extra foot lock like the Door Guardian to make it more secure.


4. Window alarms - Add these to any windows or doors for an additional piece of protection from break ins.


5. Safes - Always have a small safe in your home to keep valuables protected from intruders or fires.
   
   [caption id="attachment_14488" align="aligncenter" width="812"] (Tips 1-5 pictured left to right)[/caption]


6. Lockboxes - Instead of hiding your spare key under a rock (or welcome mat) put them in a lockbox in a hidden spot. That way if the box is ever found by a burglar, they still can't do anything with it!


7. Garage door openers - Often these are left in people's cars...but if someone breaks into your vehicle they have easy access into your home. Consider storing these somewhere other than your car.


8. Garage door locks - If you go on vacation, invest in a lock for your garage door. It's simple addition of protection that can go a long way.


9. Reinforce door knobs and deadbolts - Use steel backing to reinforce these spots. It will make it much harder for anyone to break in using brute force.


10. Security cameras - If you have the money, these can go a long way in finding those responsible for theft, and could help recover stolen goods.
    
    [caption id="attachment_14489" align="aligncenter" width="797"] (Tips 6-10 pictured left to right)[/caption]

Article adapted from: http://www.wimp.com/17-ways-to-make-your-home-impenetrable-to-burglars/