Many people wish that there was a less expensive way to maintain a feeling of security while at home. You do not have to break the bank in order to feel safe! Read these great tips for way to create a safe haven for you and your family at all times.
If you have a vacation home that you do not spend much time at, a home security system could be a worthwhile investment. This will automatically alert you and the local authorities if something happens to your home while you are away such as a fire, break-in or other problem.
Change your locks whenever you undergo a major life change. Whether it is moving into a new home or a former relationship moving out, you should always be aware of who has a copy of the keys to your home. You should also change your locks anytime you lose your keys.
Changing the locks on your home can be a great way to increase security. Locks should always be changed when buying a new home. There could be numerous people that had copies of the keys, from the real estate agent to the previous owners. Locks should also be changed whenever your keys become lost, or after a break-up in a relationship.
You should not let anyone inside your home. While their story may seem legit, that doesn’t mean it is true. Some people will simply knock on your door to see whether or not there is a security system installed, and if there isn’t, they may target you later when you’re away.
If you have a door in your garage that leads to the inside of your home, make sure that you keep your garage door down when no one is out there. Having an open door gives a burglar a place to enter, which means you and your family may be in danger.
Keep your external home wiring under cover. You don’t want your wiring to be obvious to the wrong types of people. Not only does it invite the risk of a criminal cutting your phones and electricity, it also is often something thieves seek out! Copper (often in wires) can be sold for a decent price.
Never leave a note on your door for deliverymen or service people as it is a big flag announcing that you’re not home. Instead, call the company and let them know whatever it is you need to tell them. Not having your home robbed is worth the extra effort it takes.
Ask about a maintenance schedule for your home security system. Many companies offer this free of charge. A maintenance schedule allows a qualified technician to enter your home and make adjustments, improvements and upgrades to your existing system, as well as checking to make sure it is working correctly. Your system will not help you if it is not working, so this is important.
The best types of locks are deadbolt locks. Spring locks are the easiest for a thief to manipulate, they are also the most common on many homes. People will lock the spring lock on the doorknob, but leave the deadbolt unlocked. The deadbolt is the hardest for a thief to access, so use it whenever you can.
If you have pets then you might be leery about having a home security system installed, out of fear of the pets setting it off all the time. Discuss these concerns prior to purchasing a system, and a good company should be able to set your system to not be too sensitive.
All of your exterior doors should have the hinges facing inside. Hinges are easy to break if you have access to them, so that means they need to be within your home so that no one outside can get at them. It may take some effort, but it will be worth it.
If any of your window or door frames are rotten, replace them immediately. This crumbling wood can give way, allowing a robber to pry open the entry point, giving them access to the inside. You will also prevent further damage through leaks and drafts from coming inside, both of which will cost you money if not fixed.
If you have a door which leads from your home to your garage, install a peep hole so that you can peek in from your home. If you hear noises in the garage, you an quickly look inside within anyone who might be there seeing you. Ensure your door has a deadbolt on it as well.
Have someone you trust come and cut your lawn if you will be out of town for awhile. If you do not want to hire someone, have a family member or friend do it. If you grass gets too high, burglars will know that no one is home, giving them the desire to break into your home.
Avoid hiding valuables in your underwear draw or your freezer. These may seem like odd places, but many people place items there. Seasoned burglars are aware of this, so they will still have access. It is better to buy a safe and place things there, or you can keep valuables in a safe deposit box.
If you do not have an electric garage door, you want to make sure that you lock up each time you go in or out. Locking the garage door when you are home is smart, because you might not hear someone rummaging through your things. This is an especially good habit to get into to protect yourself when your home security system is off and your guard is down.
Many people avoid the neighborhood busybody, but try getting on their good side. Busybodies are most likely to notice suspicious people lurking about. If you remain in their good graces, then, you have a better chances of finding out valuable information.
Home security systems are not your only option when it comes to maintaining a sense of safety. As stated in the beginning of the article, there are many cheaper alternatives to deter criminals. Remember the tips in this article so you can remain at ease when you’re in your home.
