Keeping your home safe is more important than ever with home invasions, break-ins and other property crimes on the rise. Even if you live in a small town or rural area and think you’re immune to crime, the statistics prove that malicious activity can happen anywhere. It is not easy to keep track of everything when we have so many things to handle at once. There are so many things that need our attention and time, which makes it almost impossible for us to manage them all. Thus, you should take precautions when it comes to safeguarding your home against break-ins or any other kind of intrusion by uninvited guests. If you’re looking for some essential tips on how you can make your home store safer, read on! Here are some tips that will help keep intruders out and keep your family safe at home.
Install a Security System
A home security system is the first line of defence against burglars and other intruders. Although no system is 100% foolproof, a security system can deter potential burglars by creating an illusion of greater risk and higher consequences. If you have an alarm system, be sure to keep the keypad inside the house so intruders can’t disarm the system.
If you have a monitored security system, be sure to update the contact information so you can be contacted in case of an emergency. Keep in mind that just because a security system is in place, it doesn’t mean you can be careless about taking other precautions. Burglars are often caught because they leave evidence behind, such as fingerprints and DNA. Make sure your security system is installed and maintained properly so that only you and your family members can deactivate it in case of an emergency.
Lock Doors and Windows
One of the best things you can do to keep your home safe is to make sure every door and window is locked. Burglars often travel in groups, so if they see that one window or door is open, they will assume that others are too. Don’t overlook the importance of locking window sills, either. These are often overlooked entry points.
Keep the curtains closed, especially during the day when the sun’s rays can shine through and make your home appear unoccupied. If your home is equipped with a doorbell, make sure to disable the button outside so no one can press it and annoy your neighbours or scare your kids. Keep an eye on your surroundings. If you see someone suspicious in the neighbourhood, make sure to report it to your local law enforcement as soon as possible.
Be Smart About Where You Store Things
Being smart about where you store your things can go a long way in keeping them safe from potential home invaders. Avoid keeping potential tools of entry such as ladders, crowbars, hammers, screwdrivers, and pliers in plain sight. If you have valuable tools like hammers that you use often, you should consider keeping them in a toolbox and storing it in a secure location.
You can also consider investing in a tool belt or holster to conceal your tools. You should also keep an eye on the people you let into your home by asking for identification if someone comes to the door claiming to be a utility worker or repairman. It’s easy for criminals to pose as someone from the water company or electric company and gain entry into your home by convincing you that they’re there to conduct a routine inspection.
Have an Emergency Plan
Having an emergency plan in place will help keep your family safe in case of a fire in the house or an intruder breaches your home. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the exits are and that they know the best way to escape in case of an emergency. You can also keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and know how to use it in case a grease fire breaks out.
Having a first aid kit with plenty of supplies such as bandages and disinfectant can come in handy when you have to treat a wound. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including the numbers of local law enforcement, in a secure place where you can easily find them. You can also consider investing in a home security system.
Conclusion
Keeping your home safe doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of diligence and attention to detail, you can make your home a hostile environment for would-be intruders. From securing your doors and windows to investing in a home security system, there are many ways you can keep your family safe. The best way to protect your home is to stay vigilant and keep an eye out for anything that seems out of the ordinary. It’s also important to remember to stay on top of your routine maintenance so you can catch small problems before they become big issues.
