A home is not just a brick and mortar structure, it is a place of our emotions, memories and most importantly – the safety of our loved ones. That is why making your home safe is one of our biggest responsibilities. While installing a security system is a great first step, an alarm system or camera alone is not enough. A safe home requires extensive lifestyle changes.
In this article, we will tell you how you can improve the security of your home. We have compiled a list of tips by consulting dozens of experts, by adopting which you can make your home as safe as a fortress – that too without spending a lot. Let’s understand it in detail.
Door and window security is the most important
- When you are not home or sleeping at night, lock all ground-level doors and windows properly.
- If your second-floor windows are visible from the street or can be reached by stairs, it is important to keep them locked too.
- Install window sensors on every window so that you get an alert when they open.
- Install window stops on windows so that they cannot be opened easily. This is also useful for child safety.
- Use long screws in your main door so that the door is more robust and cannot be easily broken.
- Insert blocking bars in the tracks of sliding glass doors so that they remain firmly closed.
- Replace old, rotten doors or window frames immediately.
- Apply frosting film on garage glasses so that no one can peek inside.
- Make sure to install a peephole or doorbell camera on the main door.
Do not ignore locks
- If you have bought a new house, get the locks changed immediately.
- Install smart locks instead of traditional locks, so that temporary passcodes can be given to guests.
- Install deadbolt locks as they are much more secure than spring-latches.
How to protect your home from inside
- Think of yourself in the shoes of a thief – what are the weak spots?
- Invest in a smart home security system that has cameras, doorbell cameras and mobile alerts.
- If you don’t keep a dog, keep dog toys on the lawn to make it look like there is a dog.
- Turn off the ring tone of your landline phone so that no one can tell the house is empty.
- Make a list of your valuables and keep a digital copy of it.
- Mark valuables with a UV pen so that they can be identified after a theft.
- Lock personal documents in a filing cabinet.
- Lock the garage from inside with a clamp and install cameras there too.
- Keep valuables inside the house away from the window so that no one can see them easily.
- Make friends with your neighbours so that you can help each other.
- Don’t hide the spare key under the door or in a flower pot – this is an old trick.
- Keep a fireproof and hidden safe to protect against both fire and theft.
- When you are not home, set a schedule for smart lights that turn on and off automatically.
- Before hiring a housekeeper or any domestic help, do a background check.
Digital security is also important
- Keep a strong password for your Wi-Fi network.
- Tear and throw away any paper that contains your personal information.
- Do not share your personal details, address or vacation plans on social media.
- See if your local police department offers a home security check.
Tips for outdoor security
- Connect outdoor lights with motion sensors so that the lights turn on when someone moves.
- Do not allow strangers to enter the house. Check the ID of the plumber, electrician or police.
- Put up security alarm system boards outside the house, but do not put up fake boards – thieves can spot them.
- Keep bushes short so that no one can hide in them.
- Keep the lawn tidy so that it looks like someone is present in the house.
- Don’t put a note on the door – it will indicate that the house is vacant.
- Avoid telling anyone before you leave for vacation and give mail to a trusted neighbor.
- Park your car in the driveway, even if you’re not home.
- Install a fence so that no one can easily approach the house.
- If your security system wiring is outside, keep it hidden.
- Install sensors in separate structures like a detached shed or pool house.
- Don’t leave ladders, tools, garden furniture etc. out in the open.
- Don’t leave the garage remote in the car.
What do the numbers say?
- According to the FBI, more than 1.1 million homes were burglarized in 2019 – 56% of these were forced entry incidents.
- The UNC study found that 60% of burglars change their minds after seeing an alarm.
- Most burglars are looking for cash, jewelry, electronics or medicines.
- According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, home burglaries decreased by 56% from 1994 to 2011.
Conclusion
Home security is not a one-day job – it is a continuous and careful process. You don’t have to implement all these tips in one day, but if you take even small steps, your home will not be an easy target for thieves. Remember, a smart home security system, vigilance, and a little planning will not only make your home safe but also give you peace of mind. Your home, your responsibility – so make security your priority from today
