Your home is the one place on this planet where you should feel totally at ease. It’s your pride and joy and the zone where you can fully chill out with your nearest and dearest.
Regardless of where you reside or the size of your property, it’s imperative you have security measures in place to protect your assets and of course, yourself.
Unfortunately, criminals target just about every kind of home you could think of. Therefore, it’s important to ramp up your home security so your property is safe and secure. Here are some things you can do today to add an extra layer of protection to your abode.
Keep Windows and Doors Secure at All Times
This one is a biggie – make sure your windows and doors are secure at all times. As you can imagine, an unlocked window or door is a burglar’s best friend. When you factor in that common points of entry for a burglar are through the front door or ground floor window, it’s your job to ensure your windows and doors are fully secure.
Make sure to keep your front door locked at all times, even if you’re at home. You should have security locks fitted to your windows and doors too. If your window handles are looking a little rusty or hard to open and close, these can jeopardise your safety too. Now may be the time to replace them. You can check out GB DIY Store’s window handles as replacements. They have guides on the best double glazing window handles to purchase that will add an extra layer of protection to your property.
Invest In a Security System
Your property should have some kind of security system. Whether it’s a basic DIY system or one that has professional monitoring and home automation features, there are tons of home security options to accommodate every budget. To pick a home security system that you are comfortable with, it’s important to establish the needs of your neighbourhood and home. Once you’re aware of the likely risks, you can elevate your property to check what is needed to protect it.
There’s the option to contact your local police department for neighbourhood crime statistics too. When searching for a security system, there are certain things to keep in mind too. These include having a professional installation or going down the DIY route, as well as upfront and monthly costs. There may be extras included in your home security system too, like smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Although this may sound like a simple one, you would be amazed at how many people have their prized possessions in full view of passers-by. Whether it’s jewellery, money, or electronics, all three are a burglar’s dream! If they can see these items through the window, they’re bound to want to try every trick in the book to gain access to your property and steal them.
The best thing you can do is keep such valuables out of sight and out of mind. It’s wise to house these possessions upstairs and away from the windows. You may even benefit from installing a safe in your property. This could come in handy if you’re going on holiday and haven’t got anyone to check in at your home while you’re away.
Light Up Your Garden
Burglars, vandals, and other criminals aren’t keen on being in the spotlight. With that said, it’s wise to install ample outdoor lighting. House these lights around your front and back garden, along pathways, and near any outdoor structures. Taking this approach will ward intruders off, not to mention cut down your risk of having a fall as you go to and from your home.
You can make your outdoor security lights more effective too. Whether it’s through using motion-activated lights that can signal if there’s movement, or using solar-powered lights to save energy, there are lots of options available to you.
Eliminate Hiding Spots
Shrubs and trees may be brilliant for boosting your home’s kerb appeal. However, they also give intruders a handy place to hide out. Because of this, it’s a good idea to trim down plants and trees close to your property that could otherwise be used for cover.
Opt for smaller bushes and flowers instead. If you’ve got trees near windows, either get rid of them or reinforce your windows with additional security. Never neglect the rest of your property’s exterior either. Make sure to lock your gate and shed, always put away ladders and stools, and even add security stickers and signs.
If you’re looking to ramp up your home’s security to guard against burglars, you have tons of options at your disposal. From investing in a home security system to securing your windows and doors, there are no excuses when it comes to shielding your property and protecting your loved ones.
