Crime in the Suburbs
Security is really important, regardless of whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet suburb. Just speak to anybody who has experience with suburban living – people who live in a small town know their neighbors. They also know who in the area seems incredibly sketchy, blasting music until 5 in the morning, and having raucous parties that leave empty broken bottles outside the house in the middle of the morning – and they know who in the area maintains prim exteriors but has extreme private drama. Regardless of how it appears on the surface, the suburbs contain just as much potential for crime and burglary as the rest of the country. It’s unlikely that you will be robbed in the suburbs – but burglary is definitely a possibility.
Maintaining Suburban Security
One of the main tips for ensuring your security when living in the suburbs is to maintain a good relationship with your neighbors, so you keep eyes out for each other’s property. If you don’t know your neighbors yet, give them a handshake and introduce yourself! Also, you need to make sure that your fence is in good condition. Your gates also need to be functional and locked all the time in order to keep burglars off and away from your property.
Also, make sure to regularly conduct a patrol of your property. This is to check up on security lighting and motion detectors (often animals can chew on wires and mess them up) but to ensure that nothing on your property seems like it’s inviting disturbance, or has already been disturbed. Patrolling is a great way to discover any potential issues like a leaking pipe, or even a stray cat that has given birth on your property.
All structures on your property that hold tools or equipment should be locked in order to prevent providing passing burglars a temptation. Never leave tools out on your property as they can pose danger to children, animals, or even your lawnmower. Both security and safety should be considered twin priorities.
And, lastly, always make sure to have all the basic security essentials down pat. Make sure to keep the key to your riding lawn mower and garage door inside the house. Always keep all windows and doors locked when you’re not inside the house. Don’t solely rely on a dog or pet as being a source of protection. Lock your doors with a deadbolt at night, and always keep your car locked. Make sure that all shrubbery and bushes are cut somewhat back from the house, and always lock up all jewelry, cash, or priceless heirlooms inside a safe. By following all these security principals, you can keep your suburban property completely safe.