accentuate the positive

Burglars choose their target based on three factors: potential reward (perceived wealth, expensive items inside the home), easy access (security of doors and windows) and perceived danger (absence of the owner, escape routes, proximity of authorities, security systems). Your best chances to protect against burglary and home invasion are to influence all three factor to the disadvantage of the potential intruder. Reduce the temptation for the intruder. Give the illusion that there’s little value to be gained by entering your home. This doesn’t mean your house needs to look “poor,” but it does mean you should avoid any displays of ostentation. Make entering your home difficult. Secure any potential way a burglar might use to access your home. This includes the use of safe locks for doors and security measures for your windows. Finally, increase the potential danger to the intruder. Give the impression that somebody attempting to gain access will always be seen somehow - either by making the main entrance routes clearly visible to the neighborhood or by installing security equipment in an obvious location.