How to Be Smart About Home Security

By: TC Thorn
Submitted: 2007-01-17 16:21:26
Print this article | Tell a friend | For publisher | Social Bookmarking
Rating:
 

Thinking about home security isn't terribly exciting, but if someone breaks into your house and steals your belongings, or even hurts someone in your family, you'll be regretting your lapse later. Why take that risk when it doesn't require much money or effort to keep burglars away from your home? Wouldn't you rather rest peacefully, knowing you've done what you can to protect those things in life that are most dear to you? I thought so. Let's take a look at some smart and easy home security tips:

-- If you have a burglar alarm or home security system, test it regularly. Also make sure all family members know how to work it.

-- Keep the exterior doors (including the door to the garage) locked at all times, even if you think you live in a "safe" neighborhood (just because your neighbors won't rob you, doesn't mean random burglars won't prowling through looking for victims).

-- If your front door doesn't have a "peep hole" or other door viewing device, install one so you can see who's outside before opening the door.

-- Don't hide spare keys outside the home, such as under mats, under rocks, or in that special ultra secret place that no one will ever find (trust me: burglars know all the good spots... it's their job). If you have problems with losing your keys, consider a thumbprint door lock.

-- Install a security chain on your exterior doors. This way you can sign for packages and talk to strangers without putting yourself at risk.

-- If you have a big dog, it may deter burglars, but don't rely on your "guard dog" as your only home security defense. There are many cases where homeowners thought their dog would guard the house and instead it let burglars waltz right in and steal the proverbial china. If a burglar doesn't show fear, chances are Fido won't react much to him, especially once he's in the house.

-- Don't have your name or anything beyond your house number on your mailbox. That gives anyone driving by too much information about you, information they could use against you.

-- If you go on a vacation, first arrange for someone to collect your mail and pick up your newspapers. Otherwise, burglars will have no problem figuring out that nobody's home (which is the perfect time for them to risk breaking in and stealing all your stuff).

-- Get to know your neighbors, and consider starting a neighborhood watch in order to keep the block safer. At the very least, let the people across the street and next door know when you're going to be out of town, so they can report any suspicious activity.

-- Pay attention to your landscaping by keeping shrubs trimmed back from walkways, windows, and doors. Overgrown foliage can shield intruders, abductors, etc. so they can ply their vile trade in peace.

-- Teach children not to give out personal information on the telephone. Also make sure they know what numbers to call, and what to do, in the event of an emergency.

As you can see, most of these security tips are just a matter of common sense. You don't necessarily need to spend tons of money on expensive burglar alarms or high-tech video surveillance systems (half the time the family probably forgets to turn them on anyway...)

Just make a habit of applying these simple but smart home security tips, and you and your family will be much safer in the long run.

For more information on keeping your home and your family safe, visit the author's Home Security web site.

Article source: Expert Articles

Most Recent Articles in Home Security category

  • Home is where the gnome is: ensuring the home and garden are protected - By: Paul McIndoe
    Most people are well aware of the latent hazards that exist in any home, which is why it makes so much sense to insure against them. However, many people aren't aware that their garden may not be covered by standard insurance policies.
  • Basic Preparation for Natural Disasters - By: Annabelle Krieger
    Learning about the types of natural disaster that are likely to impact your area is one of the first steps towards becoming prepared. All homes need to have supplies on hand for an emergency.
  • Stay safe in the home: A home safety checklist - By: Paul McIndoe
    Safety should always come first, regardless of your home situation. However, peace of mind can be achieved for your household members by following a few simple steps, and therefore ensuring safety for all around the home.
  • Home Warranty Provides Relief from Anxiety - By: Annabelle Krieger
    First time home buyer's and those that are purchasing mature homes can benefit from a home warranty. These safeguards can help minimize the stress brought on by buying a home.
  • Lockdown: Ways to secure your home - By: Paul McIndoe
    We can't ignore it, but burglary does happen. However, with careful planning and a little time spent on home security, you could drastically reduce the risks of your own home being targeted by thieves.
  • Top Tips On How To Make It Difficult For The Burglar - By: Andy Jones
    Make sure you reduce the risk of being burgled by following these simple precautions.
  • How to Handle Electricity and When to Call in the Pros - By: Joe Cline
    There is a reason you call the electrician every time something goes wrong with your electricity - not many people, you included, like playing around with wires. There are too many opportunities to electrocute yourself, start a small fire or do similar damage to you and everyone around you. However, you don't want to be too hasty in calling for help, particularly since each visit comes with a bill that, in this economy, isn't always something you can afford.
  • Shed Security, Keeping the Thief Out of Your Shed - By: Martin Underwood
    when you add it up there is a lot in your garden shed, plenty in there to interest a burglar. Unfortunately too many homeowners make it to easy for the burglar to help himself to the contents of their shed or outbuilding. Many even make good efforts to secure their home but leave their shed unlocked. How long does it take for a thief to make sure that he is not being observed, take what he wants from your shed and drive off?
  • Factors Behind Choosing Your Home Alarm System - By: Wayne Smithton
    When choosing a home alarm system, there are many factors to consider before making a final decision. The security needs that you have are determined mainly by the style or type of home that you have. Single family homes, apartments, town homes, and condos each have their own security needs.
  • Don't Risk Your Children. - By: Christian Jacobsen
    It is quite horrifying to think that in the USA there is one needless death every three hours. Do you have a smoke alarm installed in your home? Many people died in apartments as well as homes, so do not think of a smoke alarm as simply protecting the equity that you have in your property; a smoke alarm can be and is a life-saver.