It is critical that each homeowner educates himself on proper home security. You must sort through the vast amount of information on the subject. The following article will help you learn the ins and outs of home security.
It is important for your home to always look lived in. There are timers you can use to make electronics turn on and off at random times. This makes people think you’re home. This is just one of the many precautions you can take to secure your home.
Only give your house key to a professional house cleaner if you trust them. Be sure any home cleaner you give your key to is trustworthy and reputable. Carefully check their references. If applicable, call the BBB to inquire about their reputation.
If you have skylights, do not neglect them when making sure your home is secure. Although skylights provide your home with a lot of light, it is also very helpful for burglars to break in. The hardware that secures your skylights should be sturdy and durable.
When selecting an alarm set-up, think about getting one that protects not just the doors in your home. Windows need to be monitored too. If you have an alarm attached to each of your windows and doors, you can keep track of all the entry points for your home. They are the most effective.
While an alarm system or other security measures can make your home much safer, you must be sure that your security wiring isn’t exposed. An intruder can easily disable your security system by cutting the wires. Instead, make sure the wires are hidden. Your system will be far more effective this way.
Check someone’s references carefully before letting them come into your home. It wouldn’t hurt to also perform a background check. It is impossible to know if the newly hired maid or one time repairman might be a crook unless you check them out. Providing them with your key might be the biggest mistake you’ve ever made.
Always go over the small print on contracts offered by your home security company. There could be hidden costs if you were to quit your service prior to the expiration date of the contract, or you decide to add additional equipment later. You should avoid such expenses if you can, so make yourself aware.
Consider home security and safety when you are planning your landscaping. Keep your doors and windows clear of any shrubbery. If they can be seen, potential burglars will not be able to use them as hiding places before breaking in. If you want to have a garden around your home, keep trees and shrubs away from your house.
Ask about the history of any home security company you are considering. 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.
Think about your specific needs and risks prior to investigating security systems. Generic systems aren’t for everyone. You could, for instance, invest in an alarm system, some outside lights, adopt a dog or take some self-defense classes. Think about your risk factor when making a decision.
Invest in a good paper shredder. You would be surprised at how often thieves look through trash to find personal information to find out when you will be away from home so they can break in. If you cannot afford a paper shredder, rip papers up into small pieces.
Never place empty boxes for expensive items out on the curb. Burglars will see those boxes and realize that there are valuable things in your home for them to get. Cut up the boxes when they’re empty.
Are the numbers of your home visible from the street? Make sure they are large in case emergency personnel need to find your house. There is a cheap and quick fix if you see an issue.
You don’t need to rely on keys to prevent entry to certain areas of your home. Instead, use a numeric keypad. These can be installed either by you, or a home security company.
Find out more about the different contracts your security company offers. They probably each have their pluses and negatives. A long term contract should have a lower monthly rate but it also requires you to commit for a long period of time. Shorter contracts mean more freedom along with higher costs.
Don’t hide keys in obvious areas. Rocks that aren’t real are easy to notice. A doormat is obvious, and a burglar is sure to look there. Talk to a neighbor or someone that you know to hold your key. If none of these options are possible, try to think of an unusual hiding place.
Homeowners need to learn everything that they can when it comes to security. However, it isn’t always easy to sort the good information from the bad. Keep these tips handy, so you can refer back to them as you proceed to make your home more secure.
