Protect Your Garage From Break-Ins

Unfortunately, garage doors aren’t as secure as we would hope.  It takes six seconds, a coat hanger, and a little bit of practice to break into a garage.   However, there are a few simple and inexpensive ways that you can protect your home from break-ins.  Read on to learn more.

Lock Your Door Between Your Garage and Home

One of the easiest things you can do is make sure that you lock the door between your garage and your home.  That way, if someone is able to break into your garage, they will not be able to get to the rest of your home and your valuables.  It is also wise to store your valuables in a safe place, and not in your garage.  That way if a thief gains access, they’ll only be stealing a few shovels.

Don’t Leave Your Remote In Your Car

If you don’t park your car in the garage, don’t leave your garage door opener in the car.  If a burglar sees the little clip on your visor, they can easily break your window and have access to the rest of your home.  Either hide your remote, or get a keychain remote so that it is always with you, and not somewhere that a burglar can have access.  

Secure the Emergency Release

Many burglars break into your home by sliding a coat hanger into the top of your garage and hook the release handle to open the door.  Unfortunately, this leaves no sign of forced entry, and cause some insurance companies to void your claim.  Some people recommend using a zip tie to secure the emergency release handle, but that is a violation of federal regulations, and is incredibly dangerous.  It takes a lot of force to break a zip tie, and a child would not be able to do it, nor would someone who was injured or suffering from smoke inhalation.  It is better to buy a Garage Shield or other device to create a barrier from burglars and the emergency release handle.  They cost about $20 online.  

Close the Garage Door!

You would be amazed at how many people leave the garage door open when they are home, or even when they leave for the day.  Make sure that you keep your garage door closed to protect your home and family from break-ins.  

Cover Your Garage Windows

If you have garage windows, it lets potential burglars know exactly what they will be stealing if they are able to gain access into your garage.  Cover your garage windows with blinds or with an opaque screen so that your items are “out of sight and out of mind.”  If the garage door itself has windows, use a film to make them translucent.