As a homeowner, your biggest asset is your home. It’s not only where you live but also a large part of your financial security. Moreover, the rising rates of home burglaries even reached 1.1 million cases in 2019 alone.
This is why it’s so important to do everything you can to protect your home. Here are five things you can do to add more security to your living space and give yourself some peace of mind.
1. Get a Home Security System
One of the best things you can do to secure your home is to invest in a quality home security system. A home security system will deter burglars, provide protection against fire and carbon monoxide poisoning, and even let you know if someone breaks into your home while you’re away.
There are many different types of home security systems on the market nowadays, so be sure to do your research and find one that’s right for you and your budget. For instance, some home security systems require a landline while others are wireless; some are self-monitored, while others must be professionally monitored.
Also, make sure to consider your family’s specific needs when choosing a home security system. For example, if you have young children, you might want to opt for a system that has a panic button that can be used to summon help in an emergency.
2. Lock Your Doors and Windows
It might seem like a no-brainer, but one of the simplest things you can do to secure your home is to make sure all doors and windows are locked when you leave the house or go to bed at night. A lot of burglaries happen simply because people forget to close their doors or windows, so don’t let yourself be an easy target!
To help yourself remember, consider investing in a smart lock for your front door. That way, you can use your smartphone to control the safety and know for sure that it’s locked even when you’re not at home. Also, consider adding a deadbolt to all exterior doors for an extra layer of security.
You should also train your family members and any other regular occupants of your home to always lock the doors and windows when they leave, even if it’s just for a short while.
3. Install Outdoor Lights
One way to add some extra security around your home is by installing durable landscape lighting. This will help deter burglars from approaching your home and make it easier for you to see who’s at your door before you open it.
When choosing outdoor lights, look for high-quality and weather-resistant ones. You might also want to consider solar-powered lights, which are environmentally friendly and easy to install.
Motion-sensing lights in strategic places that will come on automatically if someone walks or drives by can also help deter crimes. They can also provide some extra illumination for you when you’re coming home at night or going out to your car in the morning without having to turn on a switch.
4. Get to Know Your Neighbors
Another great way to deter burglars and add an extra layer of security to your home is by getting to know your neighbors. If you have good relationships with the people who live around you, they’ll be more likely to look out for suspicious activity at your house when you’re not there and maybe even call the police if they see something going on.
In addition, getting to know your neighbors can help you create a neighborhood watch program. This is when a community group agrees to look out for each other’s homes and property and report any suspicious activity to the police.
This is particularly helpful because it means there are more sets of eyes on the lookout for crimes, not just when you’re home but also when you’re away.
5. Keep Valuables Out of Sight
If you have valuables in your home, it’s essential to keep them out of sight from both burglars and casual guests alike. Make sure things like jewelry, money, important documents, and other items are stored in a safe place where they can’t be seen by anyone who comes into your home.
You can also invest in hidden storage solutions, like false bottoms in drawers or shelves that look like they’re part of the wall, to keep your valuables hidden in plain sight. The last thing you want is for someone walking by your house to see an expensive piece of jewelry in plain sight and be tempted to break in!
Of course, the best way to protect your valuables is to keep them off-site in a safe deposit box or another secure location. That way, your valuables will be safe and sound even if your home is broken into.
These are just a few of the many things you can do to add security to your home and give yourself some peace of mind. Home security is an important issue that shouldn’t be taken lightly, so ensure you’re doing everything possible to protect yourself, your family, and your belongings.
