Home Security Concerns During the Recession

During any economic downturn, there is bound to be rise in crime. Simple logic dictates that the "have-not's" will definitely look to the "haves" when times are tight and work remains scarce. Not surprisingly, during a recent survey of law enforcement agencies across the country, the majority reported a nearly 40% rise in crimes they suggest could be traced to the recession, the majority among them thefts and home burglaries.

Experts are not surprised. It is generally believed that for every 1% the unemployment rate rises, the crime rate will rise an equal 1%. There is no need to do the math, as news agencies bring us the figures every day. Though it may not be a good idea for your budget in this tough period, it will be important to make sure you've taken care of your home security.

As the statistics point out, the majority of criminals are of the nonviolent sort: muggings, car thefts and home robberies. For that we have to be thankful. On the other hand, of the law enforcement agencies surveyed above, more than 60% of police forces said they would be forced to reduced their budget in the coming year. More crime and less cops is not a good mix.

Keeping Your Family and Property Recession-Proof

As far as economic conditions go, hopefully you've figured out a way to weather the storm and hang on until the economy picks up again. In the meantime everyone -- police included -- will have to do without. Following these steps will keep you feeling safe without driving your costs up too high.

1) Get the stickers and signs. Already invested in a home security system but didn't want to advertise? Now is a good time to start. They won't cost you anything and most criminals will often move on when there are easier targets available.

2) Light it up like Hollywood. Installing simple, motion-detecting lights around your house and yard will put the spotlight on anyone hanging out nearby. In this case, they won't be ready for a close-up.

3) Don't let your children or anyone in your family answer the door. It's a good neighborhood and there's no need to worry. That's the point: anyone trying to decide on the feasibility of robbing your home will have to look you in the eye. Don't be fooled by the takeout menus or some other ruse. Get personal: ask them where they're from, when they moved to the neighborhood, how business is going. If it's a traveling salesman, they'll be glad to talk. If you see them get uncomfortable and start to squirm, remember that face.

4) Double-check your home security system. Now is the time to take stock of things at home. Test-run your home alarm system and check with your security company that all is in working order. Research the methods used to trip alarm systems like your own. Maybe it is the time to upgrade or switch to a wireless system.

Budget cutbacks have taken the country by storm during this recession. Don't let your family's safety follow suit.

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