Common Home Security Mistakes

Hide-a-key - Many homeowners, afraid they will lose their keys and lock themselves out, choose to hide a key somewhere on the property. They think they are being sneaky by placing the key under a rock, under a doormat, in a potted plant, or above the door. Burglars absolutely know about all these commonly used hiding places. Under no circumstances should you leave the key to your house where it can be found. If you frequently lose your keys or lock yourself out of the house, consider getting a fingerprint or keypad door lock for your front door.

Burglar Alarms That Aren't Turned On - A home security system is only useful when updated and activated. Test your alarm on a regular basis and check for any upgrades to the software. And don't forget to turn it on when you leave the house, even if you're just planning to run an errand. A single thief can utterly ransack your house in just a few minutes.

Unlocked Storage Sheds - If you have a storage shed, make sure you keep it locked at all times, because otherwise you're offering thieves free use of all your tools which can certainly help them figure out a way into your home. Also, make sure you don't leave a ladder laying out in your yard anywhere. Someone could use this to gain access to the second-story windows.

Keys in the Car - It's bad enough if you leave your car unlocked, but never leave a set of house keys in the car. If you do, a burglar who gains access to your car will also have access to your house.