Home Safety & Security: Protecting What Matters Most

Posted on:  January 28, 2025

Author: Steve Wagner

Over the past few years, homeowners in southeast Michigan have faced a troubling rise in home break-ins. Communities once considered safe are seeing a sharp increase in criminal activity, leaving residents concerned about their safety and the security of their belongings. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard has been vocal about the issue, describing the rapid rise in home break-ins as a pressing challenge for law enforcement and urging homeowners to take proactive measures to protect their properties.

A Troubling Trend in Southeast Michigan

Break-ins are no longer rare occurrences; they’ve become an alarming trend in many neighborhoods. Sheriff Bouchard recently stated, “We’ve seen a significant increase in residential burglaries over the last few years. Criminals are becoming more opportunistic, targeting homes during the day while residents are at work and at night when people are asleep.”

Southeast Michigan’s proximity to major highways, which provide easy escape routes, has made the area particularly attractive to burglars. Thieves often scout neighborhoods in search of homes with vulnerabilities, such as open garages, inadequate lighting, or the absence of a visible security system.

The rise in break-ins is also attributed to organized theft rings that target specific areas in waves, striking multiple homes before moving on to another neighborhood. This has left many residents feeling vulnerable, especially in suburban communities like Oakland and Macomb counties, which have historically been considered safe.

Preventive Measures to Keep Your Home Safe

While the increase in home break-ins is concerning, there are effective steps homeowners can take to protect their homes and deter criminals:

  1. Install a Home Security System
    A visible security system is one of the most effective deterrents against burglars. Modern systems often include motion-activated cameras, alarms, and smart doorbell technology that allows you to monitor your home in real time.
  2. Improve Outdoor Lighting
    Criminals thrive in darkness. Installing motion-activated floodlights around your home, especially near entry points, can make your property less appealing to potential intruders.
  3. Secure Doors and Windows
    Reinforce doors with deadbolts and ensure all windows have locks. Sliding doors should have additional security measures, such as a security bar or shatterproof film.
  4. Make Your Home Look Occupied
    Use smart plugs or timers to turn on lights, TVs, or radios when you’re not home. Burglars are less likely to target a house that appears occupied.
  5. Get to Know Your Neighbors
    Strong community ties can enhance security. Neighbors who look out for each other can quickly spot and report suspicious activity.
  6. Use Signage to Deter Criminals
    Even if you don’t have a dog or an alarm system, signage indicating their presence can discourage break-ins.

Insurish Has Your Back

Despite the best preventive measures, determined criminals can still find a way in. That’s where Insurish comes in. We understand how devastating a break-in can be, not just financially but emotionally as well. Our comprehensive property insurance policies cover everything inside your home, ensuring that you’re protected in the event of theft. From replacing stolen valuables, like jewelry or collectibles, to covering repair costs for broken doors or windows, Insurish provides the peace of mind every homeowner deserves.

Protecting your home starts with taking proactive steps, but having the right insurance is your ultimate safety net. If the bad guys get through, Insurish has your back. Learn how we can help secure your home and everything you hold dear.

Insurish, LLC, headquartered in Northville, MI, offers a variety of homeowner insurance policies. Contact us if you need further guidance to choose the ideal coverage for you. Get a free quote today!

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