Surprising Crime Statistics in Austin, DFW, and Houston, Texas
Although the possibility of home burglary is something no one likes to consider, the first step to protecting yourself is to be informed. Like all homeowners, Texans take security seriously and want to feel safe. The reality of crime rates in our state, though, can be daunting. According to the FBI, the city of Houston experienced over 18,400 burglaries in 2016. That means that, on average, 50 break-ins occur every day. Annual crime rates in other major Texas cities are similarly concerning, with nearly 11,000 break-ins in Dallas and over 5,000 in Austin per year. What does this mean for you and your family, and how can you better protect yourself and your property?
The city’s sheer size and bustling economy make it an ideal choice to work or raise a family, but the crime rate in Houston means that living well there requires protection. With a growing population of 2.3 million, opportunities for crime in Houston are plentiful, and burglars take can easily take advantage of unprotected homes. Residents of all major cities in Texas should be aware of how commonly break-ins interrupt lives and cost hard-earned money. The population of Dallas, for example, is victimized by 30 burglaries per day (on average). Austin is steadily expanding, and even for those living in less densely populated areas, security measures are still essential. When it comes to safeguarding your property in Texas, consider what often stops burglars in their tracks.
The Reality of Home Burglary
Home security options have expanded dramatically in recent years and the choices can be overwhelming. Each home and family is different, and security solutions that may work for a suburban Austin home may not be as effective for a high-rise apartment in Dallas. The marketplace is full of systems and products that can help prevent break-ins and theft, from alarm systems and motion detectors to surveillance cameras and mobile monitoring.
The National Council for Home Safety and Security states that homes without alarms are three times as likely to get burglarized. Why might this be? About 60 percent of convicted burglars said that the presence of a security system influenced their decision to target another home, according to a report from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology. Simply put, alarm systems work to deter opportunistic thieves. If your home is clearly protected by an alarm system, criminals are more likely to keep moving.
Many break-ins take place between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when most people are away at school or work. Worrying about the security of your home is the last thing you need during a busy workday. While the clear presence of an alarm system can deter a potential burglar, break-ins can still happen at any time. Installing a security system is wise for many reasons, including the reassurance that measures are in place to watch your space when you’re away. If something goes wrong, whether on a typical weekday or while you’re across the country on vacation, you’re always better off with a home security system designed to deter and scare off intruders. Unlike your property and belongings, peace of mind is priceless.
Understanding Security Solutions
While it may seem like only a complex or expensive system can offer protection, this is not the case. Even basic, easy-to-use alarm systems have discouraged potential burglars looking for easy targets. Some hidden security features, such as motion detectors, can notify your local police department or a private monitoring service. Especially when security features are located near doors and windows, the clear threat of a loud alarm and the rapid arrival of law enforcement can send an opportunistic criminal in search of more vulnerable homes.
Ultimately, the smartest choice you can make to protect your home is to install a home security system. Smith Thompson Home Security has been protecting homes and businesses in the state of Texas since 1978 and can help you choose the best options for you and your family. Locally owned and operated by professionals that understand your needs, Smith Thompson provides top-notch service at a great value. If your priority is to thoroughly protect your Texas home against intruders, contact Smith Thompson today to learn more about our home security solutions.
