Spring into Safety: How to secure your home this season

In this Tuesday, July 16, 2019, photo, a Ring doorbell camera is seen at a home in Wolcott, Conn. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill)

Windsor police are reminding residents that while they are enjoying their homes and yards this spring, bolstering home security should also be a key priority for the season.

Key steps to keep your property safe and secure

Enhance Visibility and Deterrence

• Maintain Clear Sightlines: Ensure your home, driveway, and front entrance are clearly visible from the street or nearby homes. Overgrown landscaping can provide hiding spots. Keep shrubs trimmed to below 3 feet and prune tree branches at least 7 feet off the ground to eliminate potential cover for intruders.
• Strategic Exterior Lighting: Install motion-activated lights around your home’s exterior. These are especially effective in dark corners, along walkways, and near entrances, as sudden illumination can startle and deter potential trespassers.
• Simulate Occupancy: If you plan to be away, use timers for your indoor lights. This simple tactic creates the illusion that someone is home, acting as a deterrent to burglars.
• Install Doorbell Cameras: A doorbell camera provides a visible deterrent and allows you to see who is at your door, whether you are home or away. This technology can help you identify visitors and discourage unwanted guests.

Property Maintenance as a Security Measure

• Show Your Home is Cared For: Keep your entire property, including your home, yard, and fences, well-maintained. Promptly address any necessary repairs. A property that appears actively monitored and cared for is generally less attractive to criminals, as it suggests the residents are attentive and present.