The feeling of safety and protection is one of the reasons why shelter is so important to us. Our homes are meant to be havens of security, where we can find solace and sleep without fear. However, the number of reported cases of burglaries and home invasions is becoming increasingly alarming. Recent statistics show that a burglary takes place in the US every 15 seconds.
What this means is that there is an ever-increasing need to keep our homes secure. Adequate home security measures ensure that our minds are at rest whether we’re in or away from our homes. In this article, we will be looking at ways to increase security in your home.
Increasing Security in Your Home
Increasing security in your home and warding off intruders will require deliberate and consistent effort. The key is to be proactive, rather than waiting for incidences to occur. And so, here are 9 ways to increase security in your home
1. Install a Security System
A comprehensive home security system is one way to keep your mind at rest, no matter where you are. Alongside CCTV cameras, your home security system can include doorbell cameras, motion detectors, smart locks, and smart bulbs.
You can get all these security features in packages.Vivint packages are a great way to get your smart home security system set up quickly and efficiently. The packages feature free installation and free activation for all your devices. Another awesome reason to choose Vivint packages is that you get savings value customized with home security equipment of your choice, home automation equipment of your choice, and home video monitoring equipment of your choice.
Depending on the package you opt for; With all of your devices working together and connected to your smartphone, it will allow you to keep your home secure, no matter where you are.
2. Secure Your Front Doors
The front door is the major entry point for most homes. It is the fastest way for intruders and burglars to get in. So you must make sure to keep your front doors locked all the time.
Installing a deadbolt is one way to upgrade the security of your front door. Replace frames and hinges if they’re no longer stable. Do not leave keys to your front door in the garden pot or underneath your foot mat or a rock. If you absolutely need to drop a spare, have a lock box installed in a secret location around the house.
Also, if you’re moving into a new home, make sure to change the locks. You do not want keys to your home in the hands of strangers. So make plans to get the locks changed before you move in your belongings or spend your first night. Your back and side doors should also go through security checks.
3. Lock Your Windows
Windows are another crucial factor in home security and are another common entry point for intruders. Especially first-floor windows. Corner windows are also particularly inviting to burglars because of the reduced chances of being detected by passers-by.
This is why you must make sure to always lock your windows when you leave the house and at night, before sleeping. Make sure your window locks are secure and that they cannot be opened from outside
4. Light Up the Exterior of Your Home
Lights are very important in home security. While home invasions and burglaries do occur during the day, nighttime is even more favorable for criminals. By strategically placing some exterior lighting, you can brighten up usually dark areas.
This is essentially important for entry points into your homes. The areas surrounding the front and back doors must be well-lit. All corners with windows should also have some light. Lights with motion detectors are a great option for this.
They’ll instantly come on once someone steps on your property at night. This can be a very strong deterrent for criminals, especially because they’re not expecting it. And it makes them know that their presence has been detected.
5. Install Security Cameras
Having security cameras in your home is one of the most effective ways to keep your home protected. Security cameras allow you to see every movement in and around your home. And in the event of a break-in, there’s a better chance of being able to identify the intruders using the recorded footage.
More importantly, security cameras allow you to monitor your home in real time. For example, a Vivint indoor camera can help you keep an eye on your family from anywhere you are using your smart devices.
The best places to install security cameras in your home include the front door, back or side doors, garage entrance, and also one that will provide an overview of the front and backyard.
6. Check Your Garage
Your garage can be another target for criminals, mainly because it is often isolated from your house. And you may not always be watching it. So you must keep your garage secure. Especially if you have expensive vehicles parked in the garage and if there’s a door leading into the house from inside the garage.
One easy step you can quickly take is to cover the windows. To prevent anyone from easily seeing the contents inside the garage. Then upgrade your locks if what you currently have is not particularly secure.
7. Know Your Neighbors
While you may desire to maintain your privacy, make sure you’re not living in complete isolation. Neighbors have been known to be very instrumental in detecting suspicious activity around each other’s premises.
A neighbor might be able to spot an intruder and call the police before you even realize that anything is off. Neighbors can help to keep delivered packages when you’re home, saving them from theft. Neighbors can help to take in mail and newspapers when you’re not home.
This is especially important if you’re going to be gone for a long time. Piles of newspapers on your porch and an overflowing mailbox are one way criminals can tell that you’re not home. So make sure to keep a cordial relationship with your immediate neighbors.
8. Get a Safe
In the event that a criminal is able to get through your other security strategies, make sure that your valuables are not lying around or within easy reach. A home safe can help you protect jewelry and vital documents.
Look for safes that have more than one lock. Also, make sure that your safe is waterproof and fire-resistant. It should also be heavy enough to make it difficult for a thief to walk away with it. A safe is also a good hiding place for keeping firearms away from children.
9. Eliminate Hiding Places
Trees and shrubs may look good in your yard, but they also make great hiding places for criminals. Trim down trees and any overgrown plants that could easily be used as cover. You can keep small flowers and bushes for aesthetic appeal. Trees located near windows can be particularly inviting to criminals.
So make sure to take them down or tightly reinforce such windows. Additionally, make sure you’re not leaving anything around to help thieves have an easier time. Take down ladders and stools after using them, and keep all outdoor buildings securely locked at all times.
Conclusion
Keeping your home secure will require you to take deliberate steps every day. Locking all doors and windows when you’re away from home and at night is one way to stay security conscious. You must also ensure that you’re leaving spare keys lying around for intruders to pick up.
If you use alarm systems, be careful when entering your code in front of strangers. You should also make sure to change the code once every year. Installing home cameras and a smart home security system can also ensure that your home is protected, even when no one is there.
