Even though home security means a great deal to virtually every homeowner, many of them are woefully under educated on the subject. You should do more research on home security and learn about the different systems available. The following article will give you some great advice for making your home more secure.
Make sure your home appears occupied. Timers can be used to turn lights and televisions on and off when required. This gives off the appearance that someone is home. This will help safeguard your house to the best of your ability.
Only provide your house cleaner with a key if you trust him or her implicitly. If they need the keys and plan on being in there for more than an hour, try to ensure that they are honest, hardworking, and reputable. Do a background check on them. If you're hiring from a company, call the BBB for more information.
Social networking sites are great for keeping in touch, but post information sparingly. For example, you might avoid broadcasting when you are going out of town, especially if your friends list contains casual acquaintances. This can indicate that your home will be free and vulnerable during the time.
Ask friend for any advice they have prior to purchasing a security system or service. Other people will probably have personal experience with these companies that are either good or bad. They can share their experiences with you, which will greatly assist you in making the best decision. Taking a little time to listen can make you a much better decision maker when it comes to home security.
If you will be gone for an extended period, turn the ringers off on all telephones in the home. If the phone rings without you there, burglars will suspect that you're not home, and that can make your home a target for an attack while you're gone.
Rid the outside of your home from dead wood, vegetation and overgrowth during the summertime. When summer heats up, such debris can catch fire. Clearing your yard keeps your home, belongings and family much safer.
Local Police
Take advantage of any and all security resources your local police force makes available to homeowners. They often offer home inspections, seminars and even the ability to purchase items. Discuss these programs with a local police officer to see if they're available in your area.
Always lock your doors, even if you are just walking down the street. Most burglars gain entry to a home through an unlocked door. It does not take long for thieves to steal your expensive stuff.
You want an alarm system that protects more than your doors. All of your windows are possible entry points for a thief too. Be sure your alarm is secured to them all and that monitoring is in place for every point of entry. You want the best security possible for your family.
If you have just moved into a new home, have every single lock replaced. Even though the person who sold your home to you may seem honest, you simply can't know for certain. Keep in mind that there may have been residents prior to that person too.
Plug a rechargeable flashlight into an outlet in each room of your house in the event of power outage. If the power goes out, you will be able to see everything. Teach your children how to properly use flashlights.
Any time you let a stranger into your home that is doing some kind of work, it is best to ask for references. Run a criminal background check on them, as well. You might not know that the maid or contractor entering your home is a crook, and this could be a very bad mistake.
The areas outside your home should be kept well lit. Burglars love to operate in the dark. Make sure to have lights anywhere an intruder might enter. This includes doorways, windows, and your garage.
Put the boxes of any expensive electronic items in your trash can so would-be burglars won't know see them. Burglars will notice these boxes and know what kind of valuables you have. Break down the empty boxes whenever possible.
The vital importance of home security is something upon which most people can agree. Not every person knows how to really protect their home and possessions. Fortunately, everything you've read should help you to overcome these challenges.