Security Expert's "Common Sense" Advice Hits Home as Burglary and Home Invasions Increase in Suburbs and Rural Areas

NASHVILLE, TN, May 11, 2011 (Press-News.org) The bad economy has spurned a dramatic increase in burglaries and home invasions across the country. In April, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation released crime statistics for 2010, which showed that Nashville saw a 21% increase in burglaries in 2010. As other agencies begin to release similar reports, the results are clear. Many of the nations cities saw burglaries increase in 2010 after falling for a number years and homeowners are growing concerned.

"The number's reflect what we have been hearing from listeners all over the country. The bad economy has caused an increase in crime and it is happening more everywhere", says Alan Young, a home security expert. Over the past three months, Mr. Young has conducted nearly 100 radio interviews, giving listeners tips on how not to become victims of a growing burglary and home invasion epidemic.

"While burglaries are up, I think the reason for the sudden interest is the fact that more burglaries and home invasions are happening in areas where it has never happened before. More crimes are happening in the suburbs and in small town USA. These are places where people didn't even lock their doors three years ago," said Mr. Young.

Mr. Young's common sense approach to home security, which focuses on economical ways to keep from becoming a victim, has suddenly made him a very popular guest for radio show hosts. "It was really interesting to hear his common sense approach to security. I know that it made me think, especially the part about alarm systems," said Georgianne Kiricoples, host of the "Breaking Through" radio show.

According to Mr. Young, there are three keys to making sure that your home is secure. The first key, as Mr. Young states, is simple, "Use some common sense. Don't post vacation plans on Facebook and don't post vacation photos while still on vacation. Many burglaries are committed by someone you know or by someone connected to someone you know. Letting the world know that you're not home is an easy way to become a target."

The second key is to make your home a less attractive target than your neighbor's home. Sounds crazy but, according to Mr. Young, "If you and your neighbor are being chased by a dog, you don't need to be faster than the dog, just your neighbor. Make your home a less attractive target and thieves will go somewhere else - unless you have something that they really want." Steps to making your home less attractive to burglars include cutting shrubs and properly lighting the inside and outside of your home.

The third key is to secure the exterior of your home. "Most people think about home alarm systems as home security. An alarm simply tells you that someone is inside of your house and police response times are often greater than 20 minutes. A home alarm is the equivalent of having OnStar in your car. Would you not buckle your seatbelt because OnStar will call the police after you have an accident? Alarms are a good addition to your home's security but 85% of all break-ins are through a door. Secure your doors and you greatly increase your likelihood of success against a burglar. "

For Door Security Mr. Young recommends EZ Armor, a $69.00 kit that reinforces the jamb, locks and hinges on an exterior Entry door. The kit can be installed in about 30 minutes by a do-it-yourselfer and is guaranteed to help prevent kick-ins. EZ Armor can be purchased at Lowe's, many ACE Hardware stores and online at www.armorconcepts.com. Mr. Young also recommends upgrading your deadbolt to an ANSI certified Grade 1 lock. There are several models, including one from Schlage, which can be purchased for under $30.00 at many hardware stores.

"Security does not need to cost a lot, it just needs to work. Anyone that tells you otherwise is taking you for a ride. With a little common sense and a little effort you can effectively secure your home," concluded Mr. Young. Many other home security tips along with recommendations for what to do after a burglary can be found at www.armorconcepts.com.

Mr. Young was featured on Nashville news last year when a couple in Murfreesboro, TN was a victim of burglary and then avoided a repeat offense by taking Mr. Young's advice. After being robbed, the couple installed EZ Armor as kick-in prevention on their door. When the same burglar came back weeks later and tried to kick in the same door, he made so much noise that the neighbors called the police and he was apprehended.

To request a radio or television interview, contact Linda Schultz at 888-582-2294 or email at lschultz@armorconcepts.com.

Alan S. Young is CEO of Armor Concepts LLC. Mr. Young and Armor Concepts have been featured on The CBS Early Show, The Today Show, The Discovery Channel show "It Takes a Thief" and numerous local news segments. Armor Concepts', Door Jamb Armor, EZ Armor and FIX-A-JAMB products are sold nationally through Lowe's, ACE Hardware, Do-It-Best, Grainger, Wilmar and on its web site at www.armorconcepts.com.