Is your home sweet home truly a safe place?

In Anonymous Source, our heroine Jennifer Gibbs is kidnapped from her home by a serial killer. That might be fiction, but it can—and does—happen in real life, too: According to National Missing and Unidentified Persons (NamUS), more than half a million people go missing annually, and somewhere around 4,400 unidentified bodies are recovered each year.

More realistic, though, is property crime—such as theft, burglary, larceny, arson, and vandalism. In fact, it’s so realistic that it’s the most common type of crime in the U.S. In 2022, there were more than 6.5 million reported. 

Don’t risk being kidnapped by a serial killer—or having your stuff stolen! During National Crime Prevention Month, protect your home and family with these tips related to home security:

• Secure All Entry Points: Keep the bad guys out by locking all doors and windows, even when you’re home. Consider upgrading to deadbolt locks and reinforce door frames with metal strike plates. Sliding doors can be vulnerable—use a rod or bar in the track to prevent them from being forced open.
• Install Security Cameras & Motion Sensors: Place cameras in visible locations like entrances and driveways to deter intruders. Pair them with motion-sensor lights that illuminate dark areas when triggered, adding an extra layer of security at night. Bonus: You might capture a video that could go viral!
• Upgrade to Smart Locks & Alarm Systems: Do you ever leave the house, and your paranoia makes you wonder if you locked the door? Smart locks allow you to control access to your home remotely, offering keyless entry and real-time alerts. Combine this with a monitored alarm system that can notify authorities immediately in case of a break-in.
• Use Timers for Lights & Electronics: When away, use timers to turn lights, TVs, or radios on and off, creating the illusion that someone is home. Smart home devices can help automate this process, making your home appear occupied even during vacations.
• Keep Landscaping Trimmed: This isn’t something you thought of, was it? Overgrown bushes and trees can provide cover for intruders. Keep shrubs near windows and doors trimmed to eliminate potential hiding spots and make it easier for neighbors or security cameras to spot any suspicious activity.

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