The Official Blog of The Fence Authority

According to the FBI Crime in the United States report, there was an estimated $4.5 billion in property losses in 2013, and 74% of the total reported were categorized as burglaries of residential properties. 

That’s an alarmingly high percentage to consider, especially if you are a homeowner! How can you truly make sure your home, your family, and your belongings are safe from seige, piliging, intruders and warring factions in nearby towns?

How to build a modern-day moat to discourage burglary

The first, and most important step, is considering a modern-day moat around your property. Why? We believe that some of the oldest methods are still the most effective, and what is more traditional and classic than a moat, complete with snapping, ferocious crocodiles, and fifty feet of dark, murky water, to deter outside threats? Your home is your castle, so why not protect it like one? 

If you’re concerned about aesthetics, or how your HOA is going to take the addition of a man-made, water-filled ditch popping up in the neighborhood, don’t worry! Moats of the 21st century aren’t made with the same archaic methods they used to be built with. These days they are sleek, attractive structures that surround your home, built with all the latest in home security, surveillance and theft deterrants. 

Communities across the U.S. are fully embracing the growing trend of these modern-day moats. And we only see the demand increasing in the future. Many of the more outspoken proponents of the old methods of home protection have also begun installing towers and ramparts to complement their moats and really pay homage to the traditional castle style fortress. Ready to get your own? Follow our 5 steps to get you started and you’ll be feeling safer in no-time.

5 simple steps to creating your own moat

1. Acquiring a buildling permit

So what do you need to do to create your own moat? You’ll need to first consult with your township or local government to begin the process of acquiring a building permit.

2. Determine a viable water source.

—Wait a minute–did we really have you going for that long?

Don’t get us wrong, we’re all for home security. But unless you are a really devoted LARP or a huge history buff, a modern-day moat should be the farthest thing on your mind if you want to find ways to protect your home. 

In all seriousness, we recommend a home security philosophy inspired by the Boy Scouts: “Always Be Prepared.” Being proactive can seem like more effort at the onset, but trust us, you’ll be thankful you took precautions later.

Here’s how to get started:

Tips for Securing Your Home:

Tip #1: Take advantage of lighting

Criminals don’t appreciate having their trespassing illuminated for all to see, especially when they are depending on the cover of night to help aid them in their crimes.

• Use timers for lamps near the windows to give the illusion of an occupied home if you’re going away overnight or just out of the house for a few hours. 
• Use motion sensor lights for your front and back yards, or place them right next to entryways. As an added bonus, you’ll get the benefit of having lights turn on by themselves when you can’t get to the switch!

Tip #2: Know your neighbors

There’s a reason neighborhood watch groups spring up in communities across the nation. They work!

• Get to know your neighbors, especially those who might have a view of the front or back of your house. Let them know when you go on vacation or will be away for a few day. Ask them if they mind grabbing your mail and in return promise a delicious treat or token of appreciate when you get back.
• Don’t forget to return the favor! They’ll be glad to help you out if they know you’ll reciprocate when they need an extra set of eyes, and you’ll all rest easier knowing you have others in your neighborhood that are trustworthy.

Tip #3: Technology is your best friend

When it comes to home security devices you can install and monitor yourself, there’s no shortage of options. For the less technically savvy, there are plenty of choices for third party home security systems. Find what works best for you and rest easy knowing that you have a set of electronic eyes looking out for you.

• Installing a home monitoring device like a digital camera or a third party alarm system can be more than a physical deterrent—it will give you peace of mind while you’re not at home. Live streaming from cameras will let you peak in no matter where you are, and alarm systems will scare off buglers, alert authorities, and get the neighbors’ attention.

Tip #4: Install a fence

Fences can do much more than add a little privacy. Besides adding value to your home and creating some aesthetically pleasing accents to your curb appeal, you can create an ideal (and safe!) outdoor space for rowdy kids or rambunctious pets. 

• Using fences can be one of the best ways to proactively protect your home from outside threats. What’s out of sight is often out of mind, so hiding valuable possessions in your home like your Grillmaster Pro 3000, 70″ flat screen or prized, vintage ship in a bottle collection from inquisitive eyes behind a sturdy fence is a deterrent in itself. 
• Remember, crimes of opportunity can be difficult to predict, especially if you’re not aware of the security gaps you’re unintentionally leaving open. Use a fence around your home to thwart thieves before they get the chance to window shop and think about ransacking your home!

Tip #5: Lock it up!

Did you know that more than 40% of break-ins happen without the use of force? That means almost half of burglaries don’t even demand much effort on the part of the burglar. How nice! If you’re not taking precautions to lock up you might as well add a “Steal Me!” sign to everything you own. 

• Use dead bolts and window locks, and avoid doors with glass panes near the doorknob. Make sure to double check weaker entrances like patio or sliding doors, and grab a few sliding door security bars to use when you won’t be home. 

• Your attached garage can also be a weak spot in your home security if you aren’t careful. Even if the garage door is closed, make sure to lock the door leading from the garage to the inside of your home. Consider adding an alarm specifically to your garage door that can be unlocked with a pin number, not a metal key.

What else have you done to secure and protect your home? Share your own home security tips in the comments!