October is Crime Prevention Month

October is Crime Prevention Month, making it the perfect time for homeowners to evaluate their homes’ security and amp up measures.

Every 13 seconds, a burglary occurs somewhere in the U.S.,

adding up to approximately 2.5 million burglaries each year, according to Alarms.org. Two-thirds of those crimes are home break-ins, and if it were not for home security systems, that figure could be significantly higher — a study from UNC Charlotte found that 83% of convicted burglars said they checked for an alarm system before attempting a break-in, and 60% said they would change their mind if a system was found.

In recent years, the home security industry has experienced a renaissance with self-install options and internet-connected alarm systems sparking consumer interest with their ease of use and modern features. While alarm systems serve as an effective deterrent against potential burglars, only 17% of homes have one installed, says Alarms.org. Nevertheless, there are other precautions homeowners can take to prevent their homes and families from being victimized.