Staying In? Stay Safe

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Take a loot at this article that discusses some common tips and advice for staying safe when you are home! Burglars be gone!

Did you know that recently Statistics Canada reported that there are approximately 130,000 break-ins a year reported to police in Canada? However, some of these crimes remained unreported as well. Property crime losses range from little or nothing of value to materials costing hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Unfortunately, burglars can do much more than steal your possessions. They can commit assault if they are surprised by someone coming home or target a home that is occupied. In fact, home invaders will use an exorbitant amount of force and threats to gain control and instill fear.

Recent high-profile incidents of 'home invasion' have received significant exposure in the media, particularly where the elderly have been targeted. Nearly three times as many victims in home invasions were elderly compared to other types of robberies. Home invaders also seem to make a point of hurting their vulnerable victims. The impact of home invasions extends beyond the violence of the crime itself to a long-term loss of the victim's sense of safety at home.

• Home security systems can be a good investment, especially if you have many valuables in your home, or live in an isolated area or one with a history of break-ins
• Home security systems are an effective deterrent
• Thieves don't like bright lights. Install outside lights and keep them on at night.
• Keep your yard clean. Prune back shrubbery so it doesn't hide doors or windows. Cut back tree limbs that a thief could use to climb an upper-level window.

Read more at Home Renovation Guide