Victims of a home burglary face not only financial costs but also substantial psychological costs. So how can you protect yourself from becoming a victim? The following are some valuable tips that may help:

1. Keep valuables out of sight. If you cannot do this, consider installing a burglar alarm system.

2. Do not leave keys in the lock box or on the door knob.

3.  Consider obtaining a guard dog to protect your home and belongings (this is particularly effective when you are away on vacation).

4.  Make sure your home is well-lit at night, especially around doors and windows where burglars typically enter homes.

5.  Consider installing motion-sensor lighting around your property so that any movement outside will be immediately detected and recorded by video surveillance cameras (which can also deter potential burglars).