Are you looking for an effective way to protect your family and your home? Many homes these days are protected by home security systems, and if you don’t already have one, this is an option that you may want to consider. This article will provide you with an overview of things to consider when purchasing a security system.
There are cheaper alternatives to installing a home security system that deters criminals from breaking into your home. Simply putting up a fence or a “large dog” sign can help immensely. Criminals want to make the process as simple as possible for themselves, so dealing with a large dog would deter them.
Buy ceiling, roofing and flooring which is resistant to fire. This give your home an extra protection layer. Stopping fire hazards is a key precaution to take since the damage it causes can be considerable.
Install timers on your indoor lights. If you are planning on being away from home after dark, timers can make your home look occupied. This is especially useful if you are planning a vacation or other extended stay away from home. Make sure the timer is set differently in each room, as all the lights turning on at once does not look natural.
Add lights to your lawn. You don’t need crazy bright spotlights to keep thieves away. All you need is some decent general lighting that makes your property just a little less appealing to criminals than homes that offer a lot more cover. You can even use lights on timers to help save on the overall electricity bill while still helping to keep you safe.
The best way to make your home appeared occupied while you are away is to have a housesitter look after your home. But if a housesitter is not available, you can increase your home security by installing timers on your interior lighting. Use the timers to make the lighting appear natural, by installing them in every room and varying the on and off times.
Wireless home security systems are becoming more popular for several reasons. They are less expensive to install because there are no wires to be run, and they can be easily moved to another home when you move. They also run on batteries, so if a robber cuts off your electricity, your system will still work.
Make sure to have flashlights with fresh batteries in all rooms within your house in the event of a power outage. Power outages are common to all sorts of emergency situations, so having flashlights handy will enable you to maneuver in the dark. Make sure your whole family knows where to find them and how to operate them.
You can add a great deal of security to your home by installing a system of motion activated exterior lighting. In the evening, lights will help keep your home safe, and will add little in the way of extra expense. If strategically placed, motion detectors ensure that it’s difficult for intruders to break into your home sight unseen.
Install metal security bars on all sliding doors and widows. Sliding doors and windows are vulnerable to being forced open by a determined intruder. A simple metal bar, set into the track, adds considerable security for a small price. Make sure that the bar is long enough that the door or window cannot be opened far enough to fit through.
A wireless DIY home security system may be much less expensive than systems owned and installed by home security companies, but it lacks some important advantages. Unless you are experienced, you may no install the system correctly. Also, if the system fails you are completely responsible for any repairs. There is also no connection to the police.
If you have bushes outside your home, keep them trimmed. While the bushes may look attractive, they can provide easy cover for someone that wants to enter your home without permission. The best way to prevent this is by having an open space all the way around your home, especially near your windows.
Have someone you trust come and cut your lawn if you will be out of town for awhile. If you do not want to hire someone, have a family member or friend do it. If you grass gets too high, burglars will know that no one is home, giving them the desire to break into your home.
Inquire about various contract lengths which your security company might offer. There are of course pros and cons for each contract. Longer contracts can lower your monthly bill; however, you may have to continue paying the bill even if you move or discontinue with their services. A short contract may seem more expensive each month, but you have more freedom.
If you aren’t at the house, keep the windows and curtains closed. You don’t want potential thieves knowing you are gone. By failing to do so, you are granting a prime view of your house and your belongings. If they spot something desirable, they will seek access. You should also have them down when you are sleeping.
Learn how to create an illusion of someone being at home. Burglars don’t want to break in while you’re home. Leave a television or radio running for noise. Use timers to keep lights on and off in random patterns. Motion-detector activated lighting in the yard can convince someone to leave your yard.
If you have valuable items that cannot be replaced, you must keep them under lock and key. Items like family photos, pricy jewelry, legal documents, financial records, and passports need to be kept in a safe location. You may want to invest in a floor safe for these. An even better idea is to store them in a safe deposit box outside the home.
There are several different factors to keep in mind when it comes to deciding on a home security system. Some systems may fit your needs perfectly, whereas others may not be right for you. Make sure to do your research so you can pick the system that works best for you!
