Though they want to improve the security of their homes, many homeowners are at a loss with where they should begin. However, this process can actually be done very easily and cheaply. You can find out how to go about it much cheaper and perhaps much better after reading this article.
Home security systems aren’t just about sounding alarms. Most systems can be set to sound an alert when anyone enters the home. If you have little ones wandering about the house, this makes it easy for you to know if they have come in or gone out.
Garage Door
Don’t overlook your garage as a potential access point for thieves. Intruders can enter your home through an unlocked garage door. Get a C-clamp to secure your garage door if it is mounted on a track.
If you’ve got a garage, make sure to use it for your car rather than extra storage space. This will help to keep your vehicle safe. Hiding it will help to deter people from tracking the times you aren’t there.
There’s no security system so durable that it can go without regular maintenance and inspections. Have yours checked out once a year. Ask a qualified worker who specializes in security systems to take a look. Many different things can make problems for your security system. If you aren’t paying attention, you may not be aware of these problems.
Always change the locks if you have someone move out of your home. This could be an ex-spouse or roommate you got into a fight with. It’s generally cheap can can take less than a day to do.
If you’ve got skylights, don’t neglect them when ensuring your home’s security. Though skylights bring light into your home and look nice, it is also a very common way for burglars to get into your home. Check that skylights have heavy duty hardware that can stand up under unwanted tampering.
Alter the locks and the keys when you change homes. Even if the tenants turned their keys in, they may have made copies. Find a reliable locksmith who can replace the locks or do it yourself.
You should think about your own safety when comparing different home security options. You might find that an alarm isn’t necessary at all. In some neighborhoods, it may be better for you to have a dog, or even take self defense classes in order to protect yourself. Be sure to assess the risk level you face before making big decisions.
If you get home and the door is open, don’t go in. Your home and the area surrounding it may still be in danger. You should call the cops and then wait for them before you do anything else.
Get a paper shredder. Thieves can often be found looking through garbage cans in search of personal information found on bills and credit card slips. Rip paper into tiny pieces if you can’t afford to purchase a paper shredder.
When you are away on vacation have a house sitter bring in your mail and any flyers and newspapers that accumulate in front of your house. This is a way people who are casing out your house can tell whether you are home or not. If the flier is not removed, they will know you are not home.
Ask your home-security company about what contract lengths they provide to their customers. There are usually pros and cons in each contract. Your bill may be lower with a long-term contract, but you could wind up paying for a service you’re not using if you decide to move. Shorter contracts may offer greater freedom at a higher cost.
Your security company might give you the option to lease and eventually buy your security equipment. Buying your equipment may cost more initially, however it can actually save you money over time. Sometimes it’s more affordable to begin with a lease, even though a continued lease may be costly in terms of ongoing higher monthly fees. Investigate each option and determine which makes more sense.
Don’t hide your key somewhere obvious. It is easy to find fake rocks. A doormat is obvious, and a burglar is sure to look there. It is probably best to find someone you trust to hold a key for you. If this is not possible, think on how you will hide it.
Armed with your new knowledge of home security, you ought to be ready to make your home safer. Begin making some adjustments at home. Soon your home will make you feel safe no matter what hour it is. That will give you great peace of mind.
