Home Security Tips You Should Know Before Getting Started
Jun 15th, 2013 by administrator
Home Security Tips You Should Know Before Getting Started
When you hire someone to provide security for your home, you have to make sure that you make the right choice. You do not want to make your home any more vulnerable than it already is. Here are several tips that will help you find the right person for the job.
There are cheaper alternatives to installing a home security system that deters criminals from breaking into your home. Simply putting up a fence or a “large dog” sign can help immensely. Criminals want to make the process as simple as possible for themselves, so dealing with a large dog would deter them.
Always keep your home locked tight. Most burglars do not have to try very hard to get into the homes they get into. They usually walk in through an open door or window. By making sure your home is locked, even when away for short periods, you are keeping your house safe.
Have sensors installed on all of your windows. This allows you to leave windows open when you are not home, as well as when you are sleeping, without having to worry about an intruder being able to sneak in. They are very inexpensive and can be found at your local department or hardware store.
Annual check-ups are important for alarm systems. Get someone from the security firm to inspect it. There are many reason why a home security system can have problems, and it might be the weather or wild animals that cause it to malfunction. Sometimes, you may need a professional to locate the problem.
Install outside lighting to deter intruders, especially if you live on a dark street or a rural area. To save electricity and enhance the surprise factor, install motion detecting light fixtures that only activate when there is activity. Mount these fixtures, using bright lights, at entrances and other potential points of unauthorized entry.
Avoid putting your name on your mailbox. As silly as it may seem, doing so gives a thief ammunition to break into your home. They could easily call directory assistance using your name to get your phone number. Then, they will call you to find out if you are home or not.
Pretend you are a burglar. By taking on the role of an intruder, you can check for vulnerable areas around your property. Really think hard about ways you would get into your home if you were a criminal. Check the garage as well as sheds or other places you keep valuable possessions.
Some of the advantages of a hard wired home security system is that it is more dependable than a wireless system. There are no batteries to replace, and the system does not rely on radio frequency waves. This means fewer false alarms which can mean a fine if the police respond for no reason.
Never rely on a spring-latch lock, instead have a deadbolt installed. Spring-latch locks are easy to get through with a simple credit card. Deadbolts can’t be opened so simply and will thwart any burglar who attempts to get in. The cost of installing a deadbolt will be worth it in such a situation.
Whenever you lose one key, you must replace that lock. You never know if you actually lost it or someone who knows where you live stole it, and this puts you in peril. Even if it is a key to your car, it is important to have the lock rekeyed or replaced for your safety.
When a security company wants in your home ask for an ID and see if they’re in uniform. Intruders can easy pass themselves off as an employee of a security company just to get inside your house. This situation presents danger to your home, family and belongings. Be cautious to stay away from those potential dangers.
Don’t let anyone in your house without knowing their work history and checking their references. Conduct background checks if necessary. You can never be too sure about anyone you hire to enter your home, and giving them access can work against you.
Perform landscaping for your home which enhances your home’s safety. The doors and windows of your home should not be obstructed by trees, fences or shrubs. If windows and doors can be easily seen from all areas, then burglars cannot hide as well, which will hinder their plans. Plan features like these further from your home to have a safe, beautiful design.
It is a good idea to get some history on any home security companies you are thinking about doing business with. Companies that have been around for awhile show that they can provide reliable support. It will make you feel better knowing that the company you choose is not fly by night.
The idea of hiring security is to make sure that your home is safe. The last thing you want is to hire someone that will target you. Follow all of the steps in the article above the next time you are in the market for a reliable person to keep you and your family safe.