Protecting your family, home, and the property is a priority for most homeowners. There are simple things you can do to improve home security. Some projects will take more time than others, but completing each task adds another layer of protection to your property.
1. Neighborhood Watch Helps Improve Home Security
One of the easiest things you can do to improve home security is to join a Neighborhood Watch. This program is a free national project that anyone can register for. Look on their website for an active group in your area. If there is not a group, start one. Some communities are creating private Facebook groups and websites to stay in touch and to keep track of activities and break-ins.
2. Exterior Lights
Illuminating the exterior of your home helps deter criminals from targeting your house. In some areas, like the front porch, keep the light on at night. Motion sensing lights work well in the side yard and in front of the garage. If you have close neighbors, make sure the motion lights don’t shine into their windows. You can adjust the angle of your lighting to boost security and be a good neighbor.
3. Improve Home Security with Deadbolts
Make sure you have strong deadbolt locks. Because they are used often, the inner mechanism and latch can loosen over time. Improve security by replacing weak or aging deadbolts with newer ones. These locks come in three grades. Grade 1 has the longest bolt, can withstand the most force, and lasts a long time.
4. Windows
Windows are easy entry points for burglars. To make it more difficult for them, install screens on all windows, even the smaller ones. Check to make sure the window locks work and remember to use them. If the lock is broken, replace it yourself or call a professional. Plant small shrubs below first-floor windows to make them more difficult to access.
5. Home Security While on Vacation
When you leave on vacation, take the time to prepare your property. Install timers for lights and the radio or television to make it appear someone is at home. Stop mail or newspaper deliveries. Mail accumulating outside the house is a sign to burglars that no one has been home for a while. Let a neighbor know when you will be gone and your return date.
6. Security for Your Vehicles
If you park outside, never leave any items in plain sight. Even small things, like loose change, will catch some people’s eye. Remove belongings, lock them in the trunk, or hide them in the glove box. If there doesn’t appear to be anything worth stealing, the car’s more likely be left alone.
7. Decoy Security Systems
Sometimes just having the appearance or illusion of security is enough to deter a burglar. Fake alarm stickers are available for sale online. Place them on the house or garage windows. Install fake cameras and a sign warning that cameras are monitoring the property.
8. Use Smart Technology to Improve Home Security
Smart technology lets you monitor the property from any location. Modern video doorbell cameras detect motion on the porch and record what is happening. This is useful if you are expecting a delivery. You’ll know who is at the door before you open it. Manufacturers make internet-ready security cameras that homeowners can install themselves.
Brand Name Home Inspections offers home inspection services to Northern California. Contact us to request our services.