5 Ways to Prevent Garage Break-Ins
You always want to take every precaution you can to keep your home safe and protected. More than just your possessions, you want your family to stay safe and have peace of mind in their own home. Although you may be aware of the vulnerability of windows and doors in your home, your garage door is an area that may seem deceptively secure. In order to prevent garage break-ins, here are five steps you can take to further protect your Orange County home.
#1. Use a zip tie
One common method that thieves use to break into garage doors includes using a coat hanger or other device to reach your door’s emergency release handle. Releasing this latch enables them to open the door manually and gain entry to your home. However, there are a couple of easy ways to prevent this. One such way is by connecting a zip tie to a loop in the emergency latch. This will prevent them from disabling the automatic door and keep intruders out of your garage.
#2. Block the emergency cord
Another way to prevent this same method of entry is to block the gap above your garage door through which thieves insert the coat hanger or wire. Installing a small steel plate or piece of metal above the door will prevent them from reaching the emergency rope and will keep your home secure.
#3. Keep your garage door opener indoors
Many homeowners keep their garage door opener inside of their car, but doing this makes it easy for burglars to take it and gain access not only to your car but also to your home. If your car is parked outside for the night or for an extended period of time, bring your garage door opener inside with you. If you must leave it in the car, lock your remote in the glove compartment where thieves can’t see it.
#4. Keep your windows blocked or frosted
People who can see the possessions inside of your garage are more likely to break in. This visibility also aids criminals in identifying the exact location of your emergency cord in relation to their position outside the door. If you have windows on your garage door, use frosted spray paint, tinting, or window shades to block people’s view inside your garage. This not only adds privacy, but it will help keep your garage secure.
#5. Install a garage alarm
Garage door alarms are always a good way to ensure that your garage remains secure, and it can scare off intruders before they steal something if they are successful in entering your home. These alarms operate much like window locks in that they emit a loud alarm if they sense motion once they’re armed. For extra peace of mind at night, choose a garage door alarm alongside a standard home alarm system if yours doesn’t already cover the garage door.
If you want to ensure maximum security for your Orange County home, take extra precautions when it comes to your garage door. A broken or weakened garage door is especially susceptible to breaking and entering. If you need garage door repair or maintenance, call All Right Garage Doors for a free consultation and estimate. To speak to one of our expert repair technicians and schedule an appointment, give us a call at (714) 726-2225.
