Home security
and safety has become an increasingly prevalent concern for neighborhoods in
many cities. Even in smaller communities where crime is a lesser problem,
following a few home security tips not only can make your home safer but can
add to your peace of mind. Certainly the use of alarm systems, video cameras
and other wireless surveillance systems can make you feel more secure and loud
alarms will normally scare off the vast majority of burglars. However, also
using these simple home security tips a family can follow in addition to other
steps will help protect them and their property.
The first step is to check every point of entry. All exterior doors should be made of solid wood or metal so check them to make sure none are hollow. If they are, replace them with solid wood or even metal core doors. Every door should have a deadbolt. Do not rely on a door lock without a deadbolt. If you have a home with any sliding glass doors, be aware that you can not really trust the locks on most of them. Locking pins can help and always use a wood or steel pole that fits tightly in the track so the door will not slide. If you are in an isolated area without neighbors close by, you may want to consider replacing glass doors with something that can't be broken to gain entry.
Windows are also potential entry points and in an isolated area can carry the same risks as glass doors. Still, most burglars are reluctant to make much noise. Check to make sure that all windows close properly and can be locked. One often overlooked home security tip is to train everyone to always make sure doors and windows are secured when leaving and at night. People forget and burglars take advantage of that.
Walk around your home's exterior and look for what amounts to an invitation to burglars. Many home security experts consider it safer to avoid trees or shrubs in front of windows. This is especially true in areas not visible by passers-by such as the backyard. Someone can hide behind the foliage while working on compromising a window's lock. One home security tip is to plant dense thorny shrubs close to the wall in front of windows and keep them trimmed to below the window ledge. Few burglars will put up with the thorns. Next, you should eliminate dark areas around the home. You can install small lights by shrubs and also use motion activated lighting.
Think About How a Burglar Views Your Home
Most burglars are not into hard work. They're looking for the easiest entry with the biggest payoff. They normally want to get in and out without attracting any attention or wasting any time in an exposed position. If you have an alarm system installed (and maybe even if you don't), a sign in the yard and signs on the windows warning of the security system, will often cause them to move on hoping for easier pickings.
Other home security tips include keeping the curtains drawn at night, especially if you're not at home, and keeping valuables out of sight. High-cost, high-demand electronics which are visible from the outside are a lure to burglars. Check the sightlines from outside and where possible locate expensive, portable items where they can't be seen. If a burglar can't see your valuables, he may be unwilling to risk getting caught. Invest in a simple timer to connect to a light and perhaps a radio when you'll be out of the house. A dark house at an hour when most people are still awake can be an invitation to a break in.
By themselves, these home security tips can greatly reduce your vulnerability. The use of home alarms, wireless surveillance systems, outdoor security cameras can also all contribute to ensuring the safety of your family and your property. An aware, organized neighborhood where everyone knows and looks out for each other and their property is one of the strongest sources of security. It does take some time, effort and commitment, but it can make for a safe, pleasant neighborhood with a high quality of life for all the residents.
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