Home security is important whether you have just moved to a new home, are thinking of moving, or simply want to enhance your current setup. Home burglaries happen too often, and taking a few measures can ensure you aren’t part of the statistics. Discussed below is a home security checklist to ensure your home is protected. Use it to identify weak points within your security system and rectify the situation.
Can You Monitor Your Home from Anywhere?
One of the best security inventions in the market today is surveillance cameras. Installing a PTZ Camera increases overall security in your home. Most burglars will avoid houses with security cameras because they don’t want to be caught on tape breaking in. Another benefit of cameras is that they allow remote monitoring from anywhere worldwide. You can monitor your home from the office and raise the alarm if you notice suspicious activity. For this reason, your home security system should include a CCTV system.
Inspect Your Locks
Doors are the common entry points for intruders. Ensure your home is secure by inspecting the locks of your exterior doors. Installing locks isn’t enough. You have to get quality locks that an intruder can’t easily break into. Most homeowners install deadbolts as they are more secure. If you have problems with your locks, call a locksmith and replace them. For those who use sliding doors, ensure they’re secure. A secondary lock that prevents intruders from forcing the door open is a good idea.
Ensure You Can See Visitors at the Front Door
If you can’t see the person at the door and verify their identity, you should be concerned. Most front doors have peepholes. If yours lacks one, have it installed. Go for a high-tech solution by installing doorbell cameras. These devices monitor your front door and record videos. When people approach your door, you can watch them and confirm it’s not an intruder. They also have audio, allowing you to communicate with the person on the other side.
Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Did you know that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are the most effective way to prevent fatalities? Install them on each floor so that the whole house is covered. Once you install them, don’t just assume they’re fine. Test them out every month. While quality devices don’t easily malfunction, they still can. Testing the alarms regularly helps you identify what isn’t working. Don’t forget to replace batteries once a year and clean the detectors to ensure everything remains in excellent working condition.
Check if Your Landscaping Provides a Hiding Spot for Burglars
While trees and shrubs enhance your exterior appeal, they can also be hiding places for thieves. Because of this, ensure they’re well-trimmed and maintained. Limbs that help intruders climb and access your windows are a security threat. Cut them down.
Inspect Your Windows
Windows can also be an entry point for intruders. While most people pay attention to doors, some forget to secure their windows as well. Lock your windows and ensure an intruder can’t force them open. If the locks have problems, install secondary bolts. Test all the windows in your home, including those on the second floor.
Hide Your Valuables
Stand across the street and look at your home. Can you see items like laptops, the TV, and other valuables? If you can, so can burglars. Invest in window coverings that allow light to penetrate but prevent outsiders from seeing what’s in your home. You can also get a safe for your home and store valuables like cash, jewelry, and sensitive documents.
With this safety checklist, you should be able to keep your home safe. You can also invite a security company for a professional inspection to ensure you don’t miss anything.
