Homeowners feel as though it is tough to make their home a safe place. Actually, home security is not costly or difficult. If you take the time to read the tips below, you will find that it can be easier and less costly than you had originally thought.
After you purchase a new home, change the locks. You don’t know how many keys have been handed out previously. Call a locksmith to make sure you’re the only one with access to your home. Give a key to someone you trust in case you get locked out.
Only allow maids and cleaning services to have a key to the house if they are known to be trustworthy. If you do give out a key to such individuals, be certain you know their reputation for honesty. Check the housekeeper’s references very carefully. If you hire a cleaner from a company, then you should check the company with the BBB.
Make sure you have a safe to keep valuable items in one place. This will help to keep your jewelry and other valuables secured in the event of a break in. Your safe should be placed somewhere it is not readily noticeable.
Compare different systems when looking into home security. Each company has different rates for their security system. Get at least 3 quotes from security system companies and compare features and services as well as monthly costs.
Don’t open your door if a stranger is on the other side. People try many ways to convince others to open up their doors so that they can commit burglary or worse. Therefore, only allow people you know and are expecting to enter your home.
When it comes to securing your home, start by changing your locks. Not everyone who leaves your house will leave happy, and a fresh set of locks will protect you from both former residents and acquaintances of your own looking to cause mischief. It is inexpensive, and most locksmiths will be available for next day appointments.
Keep valuables hidden within the walls. You do not have to damage your walls to keep your valuables safe. Most homes are pre-equipped with these handy spaces. You could removed the wiring from an electric socket that you aren’t using, and stash jewelry inside it.
When deciding on an alarm system, be sure and get one that protects more than your doors. Windows need to be monitored too. The alarm and monitoring system should be set for all windows and doors. This will help to keep your family safe.
If you have purchased any large and/or expensive items, do not throw the boxes away until the day before the trash man is scheduled to come. Having these boxes around for a while will give people an idea of what is inside your house.
Replace rotten wood near door frames. An intruder could pry the rotten wood easily to open the door. Replace dead wood with thick, firm pieces to maintain a high level of security.
Make sure you have several flashlights that are charged and ready to go in the event of a power outage. This is important for you to be able to see should your power go out or you suffer an emergency. Teach your children how to use the flashlights so that everyone in your household can help.
Check references before giving anyone access to your home. A background check may also be a good idea. You don’t know whether the contractor, maid, or repairman that you’ve hired is trustworthy and handing them your keys could be a costly mistake.
A great way to achieve extra security is to install exterior lighting equipped with motion detectors. At night, not only will these lights be handy to light up areas around your home,they are also a cost-effective and efficient security addition. Whenever you properly position these lights, they will make it almost impossible for burglars to sneak in.
If you’re hiring a company for home security, be sure to read any fine print before you sign that contract. There may be hidden costs involved that you were not aware of. It’s best to know about these fees in advance so that you can avoid them when possible.
Use the Internet when you are seeking a new home security company. Review different websites and review comments from previous customers. With that information, you can make your appointments with the top three companies you’ve chosen so that you can compare pricing and look at specific monitoring and plans.
Keep safety in mind when doing landscaping. All of your windows and doors should be unobstructed by plants, shrubs, trees or fences. If these things can be seen by the naked eye, they won’t offer hiding places to potential criminals. Plan your home with safety in mind.
Research how long a security company has been in the business before contracting with them. Companies with a long history can give you the best service for many years. It will make you feel better knowing that the company you choose is not fly by night.
When you are away on vacation have a house sitter bring in your mail and any flyers and newspapers that accumulate in front of your house. It isn’t uncommon for burglars to put up fliers to see whether or not they’re removed. A flier that hangs around for days on end lets burglars know that there’s no one in the home.
If you purchase an expensive item, get rid of the box rather than allowing it to sit outside your home. These boxes are a signal to burglars that you have something worth stealing. Remember to cut up the boxes when they’re emptied.
You can secure your home better now that you’ve got smart security tips. You can now make the changes you need. In no time at all, you will have round the clock peace of mind about your home security. Peace of mind and real protection are closer than you think!