Home security may be a big priority for you, specially if you live by yourself or if you’re a single parent. You can do things to help eliminate your fears. Read on and learn all there is about home security.
Spare Key
Is your dog kept outside when you are away? If so, the dog can be a terrific spot to keep a spare key. Simply put the key onto your dog’s collar so that robbers cannot locate it. This is the perfect place to store a spare key, especially if your dog doesn’t care for strangers.
If you want to have a spare key close to your house in order to prevent lockouts, make sure you give its hiding place some careful thought. People will check your doormat and frame first. Hide your alternative key on your dog’s collar.
When dealing with companies that install home security systems, it’s important to trust your gut. This goes for the installer, too. Do not hesitate to ask for a different person to install the system or even consider hiring a different company. The point of having a security system is to make yourself feel at ease.
Stashing your most precious possession right inside the walls of your home can be a great idea. You don’t have to damage the walls to do so. Most homes are pre-equipped with these handy spaces. Perhaps you can use an old electricity socket as a place to hide your valuables.
Choose an alarm which monitors other areas outside your doors. It should protect the windows too. Therefore, ensure the windows have an attached alarm. All potential entry points should have an alarm. This will make your family safer.
If your home isn’t new, replace the locks. The previous tenant or owner may not have the keys, but you don’t know if they made copies for themselves or others. If you own, you can have the locks replaced and only you will have had the key.
If you hire a security company, read any fine print. There may be hidden costs involved that you were not aware of. You are going to want to avoid these kinds of hidden fees, so know about them up front.
If you have your home brightly lit, burglars are likely to avoid it. They wish to avoid detection. It makes it look like you are home and makes it difficult for thieves to hide. Make sure the lights stay on to keep your home safe.
Security Company
Research how long a security company has been in the business before contracting with them. A company with a long history has proved they can survive and provide great service to people. You can feel confident when you choose a well established, reputable home security company.
Spring latch locks are not a good option. These locks can be opened easily with a credit card. Intruders can just wedge the credit card in between the latch and the door, causing it to open. Add a deadbolt if you do not want to replace your spring latch locks.
When you will be away from home, keep the curtains and blinds shut. If they remain up, criminals will have no problem seeing right into the house. If they spot an item they’re interested in, they will most likely try to enter. You should keep them closed while you are asleep.
Your security company might give you the option to lease and eventually buy your security equipment. Purchasing your equipment may cost more in the beginning, but this is a one-time cost which does not recur. Leasing is often less expensive, but it may involve contracts and higher monthly fees. Think about both options before making a decision.
Set up a timer to turn your lights off and on at regular intervals. A timer will prevent the need of flipping the switch. In addition, it will help ensure the lights keep turning themselves on and off when you are not home. This will help deter potential burglars.
Inquire whether or not your security company offers motion sensor lighting. Many companies do offer this and it makes lights outside the home turn on just as soon as a person approaches them. This can give you a heads up if a robbery was about to happen.
Make friends with your neighbors. They will let you know if they see someone suspicious near your home. By being friends with them, the probability of them notifying you immediately is higher.
Be sure to get deadbolt locks with captive key-locks. They have a thumb latch ensuring that reaching through a window won’t unlock the door. When at home you should keep the key securely in the lock. In this way you will be able to exit quickly in case of emergency.
Making your home safer through home security does not always have to cost a small fortune. There are cheaper alternatives that can keep criminals at bay. Remember the tips in this article if you would like to feel more safe at home.