Friday, January 22, 2010

Landscape Security

By Pierre Levingston

Most people understand the need for a security alarm. But what other measures can you do to add to the safety of your home? What are things you can do to make your home less appealing to burglars?

Surprisingly, the way you landscape your lawn plays a role in whether your home looks like a target to criminals. A home that has a clear view from the street into the accesses of the home are a lot less likely to be broken in to than those that have a lot of bushes and trees to hide behind. Here are some ideas of ways you can keep the landscaping of your home more secure.

Try to keep trees away from your home, especially if you have more than one story. When trees are close to your home thieves can use them as make-shift ladders. If you already have trees near your home, keep it well trimmed so burglars would be able to be spotted if they do try to hide or use the tree.

A lawn that is not kept up will be similar to a flashing light to a burglar. They will easily zone in on the fact that you are away and take advantage of it. If you are going away on vacation, have a friend mow your lawn.

Trim all brushes and shrubs. Most security professionals will agree that brushes and shrubs, especially those close to your home, should not be allowed to grow higher than 2-3 feet. While larger bushes are beautiful to look at, thieves use these high bushes to hide behind so your neighbors won't be able to spot them.

If you do like bushes consider planting thorny bushes. These types of bushes are not fun for family members, but if your little kids are grown up and away they can be a helpful deterrent. No thief enjoys hiding in rose shrubs.

Keep your home easily viewed by neighbors and those passing by. Don't close off your home with a line of trees. This may be a beautiful way of gaining privacy, but thieves often take advantages of homes like this because neighbors can't see them breaking in to your home.

Outdoor lighting is also a great security measure. Motion lighting, in particular, is a good choice for security. It allows you to know the instant something moves near your home, and also saves you money on your electricity bills.

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