Do you know someone who has been the victim of a break-in? This crime is becoming more common, so you need to be vigilant. Home invasions can occur anywhere; no neighborhood is immune. The following article will give you advice to help make your home more secure.
It is important for your home to always look lived in. You could purchase timers which make lights and TV’s, as well as other devices, power on or off at varying intervals. This way, it will appear that you are at home. This is a great way to keep your home safe and avoid burglaries.
You should always change the locks after purchasing a home. There is no way to ascertain how many keys the previous owner handed out. Get a locksmith in right away. Do the same thing if you happen to misplace a key.
If you need to leave a key for a maid service, make sure that that whoever cleans your house is professional and trustworthy. You should not let cleaners have your keys if you feel like you cannot trust them, or if they will be working in your home while you are away. Carefully check their references. If it is a known company, check with your local BBB.
If you will be vacationing for an extended period of time, turn off the ringer on all the phones in your house. If your phone rings and is not being answered, criminals will realize that you’re away.
Be brave! Speak with your neighbors. Keep watch of their homes when they are away, and ask if they will return the favor. Don’t disregard gossip either. Important security details (like the presence of strangers in your neighborhood) can come out of the most innocent conversations.
Use motion sensors on exterior lighting. These kinds of lights will pop right on when they detect motion near your home. These lights will make you aware of, and can also scare off, potential burglars. Just remember and change out the light bulbs whenever necessary.
Security starts with new locks. Anyone from an old roommate to a former tenant could have access to your home if you leave the old locks in place. This is a very easy process that you can complete within a day.
Spare Key
It is not a good idea to hide a spare key on your property. A key that is easily found is a convenience for a burglar, not just for you. Burglars always know just where to look. A better option is to entrust an honest neighbor with a spare key.
Check each spring for any rotting frames on your doors and windows. Replace them immediately if you spot any problems. If a person wants to enter your home, rotted wood can easily be pried away. Replace rotted wood with fresh wood to make your home safer.
You need flashlights and plenty of batteries in each room just in case your power ever goes out. These items will help you remain safe when there is no electricity. If you have kids, teach them how to properly use the flashlights so everyone in the family can help out during a power outage.
Security Company
If you allow a security company to come to your house, make sure they appear professional and can present identification. Potential burglars can easily claim they are security company representatives so that they can enter your home. This could be quite dangerous. Be very careful with who you let into your home.
The most useful tool for finding home security is the Internet. You can check out their packages and rates and also read some customer reviews. You can then make three solid selections and make appointments with them.
Landscape your home with safety in mind. Doors and windows should not be obstructed by trees, plants or shrubs. If windows and doors can be easily seen from all areas, then burglars cannot hide as well, which will hinder their plans. Utilize shrubs and trees farther away in order to add beauty to your home while keeping it safe.
See how long the home security company has been around before you make any decisions. Companies that have been around for awhile show that they can provide reliable support. It also ensures they’re not a fly-by-night firm.
If you haven’t bought a paper shredder yet, make it a point to do so. Thieves can often be found looking through garbage cans in search of personal information found on bills and credit card slips. Cutting the papers into small pieces with a pair of scissors is another option.
Burglaries happen in middle and lower class neighborhoods, too. Thieves target houses that are easily broken into. If you follow the tips in this article and ramp up the security of your house, you can protect your home and family better from unwanted intruders.
