The odds are pretty good that someone in your immediate circle of friends and family members has had to deal with a burglary at some point. If home invasions have become more frequent in your area, it is time to invest in an efficient home security system. People could break into your home any time. This article provides information about ways you can improve the security of your home.
Create the illusion that your home is constantly occupied. Have electronics and lights with timers and set them to go off at various times. This makes it appear that someone is home. This will help safeguard your house to the best of your ability.
Your faithful dog makes a great hiding spot for a spare key. This is only true if yours in an outdoor dog, or your house is equipped with a doggie door. Put a key on the dog’s collar so you have access to it when necessary!
Spare Key
If you want to have a spare key hidden outside of your home, hide it carefully. Above doors or under doormats are much too common to hide them and potential criminals will check them first. One good place to hide a spare key is in the collar of a dog that does not take kindly to strangers.
Do not post on your social media accounts regarding when you will be away on vacation. It’s great to see new places and take a lot of photos, but posting them while still overseas lets thieves know your home is empty.
Talk to the police department in your area to see what safety programs they have. They may offer things such as home inspections, engraving tool loans, and other guidance about securing your house. Call and see what is available.
When dealing with companies that install home security systems, it’s important to trust your gut. This is very true when you feel uneasy about the person installing the system. If you don’t feel comfortable, go with someone else. The purpose of using the company is to calm your uneasiness, not worsen it.
Rural Areas
Rural areas are just as prone to break-ins as cities. Interestingly, many think those living in rural areas are actually more susceptible to break-ins since neighbors may not live close by. That said, stranger things have happened.
You should not hide your spare key under your mat or inside a plant box. You might think this protects you against being locked out of your home, but it also gives intruders access to your home. Thieves are familiar with these hiding spots. Ask a friend, neighbor or relative to keep your extra keys for you.
After installing a security system in your home, make sure any wires are hidden. Exposed wires make it easy for an intruder to cut them and disable the alarm. Don’t make it easier for them, so have wires hidden in the house’s walls or buried. This helps keep you and your family safe.
The wiring outside of your home can be valuable. The majority of people aren’t aware of this fact until a burglar steals these wires. Experienced criminals can make a decent amount of money quickly by stripping copper wiring off of houses in order to sell it at a scrapyard. Be sure that you keep all your wiring hidden and make it hard to access.
If you move to a place that was occupied before, you should change the locks right away. The person who used to live there may still have a key. Find a reliable locksmith who can replace the locks or do it yourself.
Carefully check the references of everyone before allowing them to enter your home. It wouldn’t hurt to also perform a background check. You can never be too sure about anyone you hire to enter your home, and giving them access can work against you.
You should think about your own safety when comparing different home security options. Security systems are a proven method of reducing your chance of break-ins, but it is not always the right choice. Sometimes just taking a class in self defense or adopting a loud dog is enough, while at other times a full fledged security system might be the way to go. Think about your risk factor when making a decision.
It is a mistake to assume that break-ins only happen in upscale neighborhoods. Thieves will hit any home that appears to be an easy target. Protect your family and your home against burglars by following the tips presented here.
