Making your home safe is one of the most important things you can do to protect your family. Not only will it keep them safe from accidents, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that they are well taken care of.
Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, there are steps you can take to ensure that your home is as secure as possible. Here are eight steps you should take to make your home safer.
Install security systems
Security systems have come a long way in recent years and can provide 24-hour monitoring of your home. They usually include features like motion detectors, door and window sensors, video surveillance, and alarm systems that alert you if there is any suspicious activity. And based on the advice from XLR Security, Uniview Cameras also offer facial recognition, a great feature if you have children in the home. The ease of use and the peace of mind that these systems provide is well worth the cost.
Additionally, consider adding a smart lock to your front door. It will give you the ability to control who can access your home from anywhere, anytime by using an app on your smartphone.
Secure doors and windows
It’s essential to secure all exterior doors, as well as any windows that could provide access to your home. Door locks should be sturdy and not easy to pick or kick in. You can also add extra protection by adding door reinforcement plates and security bars. If you’re not sure which type of lock to use, consult a locksmith or do some research online.
Of course, you should also keep windows locked when not in use, and consider installing window sensors to alert you if someone is trying to break in.
If you have small children and pets, you should also take measures to ensure that they can’t open windows or doors without your help, such as installing child-safe locks and gates.
Light up the darkness
Good lighting can deter potential burglars and accidents. Install motion-activated lights around your home that will turn on when movement is detected. This can not only give off the impression that someone is home but can also help you identify any suspicious activity.
On the other hand, you will feel safer if you need to go out at night if your driveway and walkways are illuminated. Make sure to use outdoor lights that are bright enough so that you can see what you are doing and where you are going.
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in every room of the house, particularly near bedrooms. It’s also important to check them regularly and change their batteries as needed. If your home is equipped with a fire alarm system, be sure to test it every month as well.
On the other hand, you should also make sure that all of your appliances are in good working order and replaced as needed. If you detect any unusual smells or sounds, contact an expert right away.
Secure valuables
If you have expensive items, such as jewelry, artwork, or electronics in your home, make sure they are securely stored away. Consider investing in a safe or installing lockable cabinets to store these items when not in use. This will ensure that they are well protected and not easily accessible, especially if you need to leave home for a certain time.
Additionally, if your windows are faced toward the street, you should consider installing curtains or blinds to prevent people from seeing what’s inside.
Be mindful of your landscaping
When landscaping around your home, make sure that trees and shrubs are not close to windows or doors. This will provide a hideout for someone who is trying to break into your home. Additionally, prune back any overgrown branches and trim tall bushes so that your home is visible from the street.
However, don’t make your home look too barren either, as this can also be a sign that the home is vacant. Ask your friends, relatives, or neighbors to look after your home while you are away, and make sure the landscaping looks maintained.
Sheds and garages
Make sure that any sheds or garages on your property are just as secure as the rest of your home. Install a sturdy lock and keep it locked when not in use. Additionally, use strong locks for ladders, bikes, and other items that need to be secured outside.
These spaces can be also used for secure storage of any valuables that you don’t have space for in the house. For instance, if you need to store a large item, such as a bike or treadmill, use an indoor locker with a heavy-duty lock. You can also use a lockable garage to protect any vehicles you have stored in the area.
Automate the house
Finally, you should consider investing in a home automation system to monitor your home and its surroundings. You can set up sensors that will alert you of any suspicious activity, as well as remotely control lights, locks, and other devices at the touch of a button.
Additionally, you can monitor the energy usage in your home and make sure that all systems are running efficiently. For instance, you can set the lights to turn off when you leave the house or set up a timer for your air conditioning system.
On the other hand, you can also use this system to keep tabs on who is entering and leaving your home, as well as receive notifications when someone arrives at the door.
Securing your home is important for peace of mind and to protect your belongings. While you can’t do everything, following these eight steps will make it more difficult for criminals to target your home. Additionally, by being mindful of your landscaping and installing security features such as locks and alarms, you can deter would-be burglars from attempting to break into your home.
On the other hand, making a home safer for everyone living in it should also be a priority. Taking measures such as installing motion lights and keeping valuables secure can help protect your family from harm while maintaining appliances and setting up an automation system will make running a household easier.
