Homeowners are naturally quite anxious about break-ins and home invasions. But is a security system all you need to deter ill-intentioned individuals?
Not necessarily! Thankfully, there are other simple and effective things you can do to improve your property’s security. Combine them to keep intruders at bay!
1. Strengthen Your Doors and Windows
Burglars usually enter homes through the doors and windows.
- Make sure they’re sturdy and fitted with quality locks. Or swap your current locks for even more secure electronic keyless models.
- Replace old, fragile wooden doors with steel or fibreglass ones.
- For windows, consider installing additional locks and applying security window films that render the glass even more impact resistant.
2. Go Smart
Home automation now offers innovative home security solutions.
With connected devices, you can control the lights (to make it look like someone is home, see section 5), locks, and cameras in real time. You can also receive alerts if unusual activity is detected and thus contact the police. If your camera has a speaker, you can even remotely order your uninvited guest to leave immediately as soon as they step onto your property.
3. Illuminate Your Home’s Perimeter
Proper outdoor lighting reduces the risk of burglary. The “bad guys” prefer to act in the shadows, so strong lighting is a straightforward deterrent measure.
Install lights with motion sensors around your property, particularly above doors, windows, and the garage.
4. Adopt Good Habits
Sometimes, even a minor oversight can put your home at risk.
- Always lock your doors, even if you’re only going out for a few minutes.
- Don’t leave valuables in plain sight through the windows.
- Avoid leaving windows open at night or when you’re away.
- And never conceal spare keys by the door, especially in obvious places like under the doormat or in a flowerpot. Expert thieves can easily find even the most perfect hiding spots.
5. Give the Impression Someone Is Home Even When You’re Away
It’s important that your house still looks occupied when you leave on vacation or for a long weekend. You don’t have to go all-out Home Alone-style, but a few simple measures can make all the difference.
Ask a neighbour to pick up any delivered packages so they don’t pile up, connect your lights to a programmable timer to have them come on and off at different times, and leave a car in your driveway if possible. You can equally ask a friend or neighbour to mow your lawn so that your property doesn’t stand out.
6. If You Have a Home Security System, Show it!
Robbers will actively avoid a property equipped with the latest security technology. If you have surveillance cameras, a security system, or any other form of home protection equipment, make it as visible as possible with stickers in the windows or by lighting the devices.
7. Don’t Overshare on Social Media
We all tend to share our lives on social media, but you shouldn’t advertise the fact that you will be away from home for an extended period. Malicious individuals could use this information to target your residence during your absence.
Wait until you get home to post pictures of your trip’s highlights!
Home security doesn’t stop at installing an alarm or at bolting the doors. It’s a set of actions and good habits that, together, create a safe environment for you and your family.