9. Always Lock Your Doors

If you haven’t read our post entitled “Why You Should ALWAYS Lock Your Doors,” it’s definitely a must-read.

In short, the fact of the matter is this. Most common criminals are looking for the “softest” targets available. Unlike in the movies, they don’t spend months, or even hours, planning and staking out their next heist.

Some do, but these are in the extreme minority…

Most simply walk up to cars parked along the street trying doors to see if they’re unlocked. Or they walk through a neighborhood looking for open garage doors. Ambitious criminals will scan the neighborhood look for homes that “appear” to be empty and try a door… See where this is going?

In other words, you can seriously beef up your security and prevent 99% of property crimes by simply locking your doors religiously, both for your vehicles and your home.  It’s a philosophy that’s based on hard evidence, not paranoia.

If a trespasser does attempt to bypass your locks, the lock will at least buy you time. Your watch dog will certainly take note.

RELATED: 10 Hollywood Survival Myths That Will Get You Killed

What did I miss? Share your best home hardening tips in the comments section!