Home Safety

Security in the home is a significant part of your peace of mind. Not only does your house provide shelter from the elements, but your house also naturally provides security for the people who live there, as well as your possessions and valuable personal property.

In many cases, the steps you take to secure your house can add value, ambiance, and functionality. Utilizing a “deter, detect, delay” tactic in securing your home is a good approach. Criminals look for the easiest target; if you take a few basic steps to secure your home, you may avoid becoming a victim.

Garett Huber of Berkshire Hathaway HomeService PenFed Realty recommends “Upgrading homes with more modern devices such as internet-based systems for windows, doors, and appliances will help keep the home safe from damage caused if the homeowner is away or an absentee owner who may have a second home or a rental. Having systems that monitor use will help keep the property safe with lower deferred maintenance.”

Doors, Windows, Locks

Checking locks is often overlooked, especially at night and when away from home. Many burglaries are no-force entries which means the burglars entered through an unlocked door or window. Windows and doors-to-decks on the second floor also need to be locked. Intruders can gain access by climbing trees and shrubs and trimming trees and shrubbery to limit upper-level access or provide hiding places.

A wooden dowel is inexpensive and convenient for securing a sliding glass door or window. If a door or window is in an out-of-the-way place that is easily accessible, consider reinforcing it with bars or an outer security door.

Studies show that the more difficult it is to enter the home, the greater the chances are that the burglar will move on.

Lighting

The use of light can be an excellent deterrent. A well-lit exterior with well-lit entranceways is both aesthetic and more secure. Motion detectors provide safety for the house’s occupants and offer more security. Be sure to check and replace burnt-out bulbs. Jose Rivera of Option 1 Realty Group suggests, “use motion detection devices for night security as well as keep entrances clear and free of bushes where burglars can hide.” When not at home, leaving a few lights on inside is a good way to deter criminals, as it provides the appearance that somebody is home.

 

Fences and Gates

Fences can provide a certain amount of privacy as well as security. Tasteful fencing can create a feeling of “place” that delivers a flattering look and feel to your home while also adding a deterrent and a delay to criminals. Limiting traffic to your property and creating barriers to individual entry make it more difficult to remove personal property.

Security Systems/Cameras

Utilizing a security system is a great way to secure your home; however, most security systems require a monthly service that can be expensive. Fake security cameras are relatively inexpensive. Placing dummy security cameras in conspicuous locations on the house’s exterior gives the illusion that a security system is in place. Simply seeing a camera can be a deterrent. Even if a criminal may suspect fake cameras, there is a chance that they are not, and the psychological effect of “somebody may be watching me” is enough to deter would-be criminals.

There are security and monitoring systems available that do not require a service. Aside from the initial expense of purchasing and installing these systems, they are an excellent alternative to fully monitored security systems requiring monthly subscriptions. These systems produce a loud alarm to alert occupants and neighbors of an intrusion.

A drawback to a security system is that it is subject to power outages. Criminals can disable a security system if they can access the main power switch. Securing power boxes can help alleviate this risk. Also, using uninterrupted power supplies (UPS) or a security system with a backup battery will lessen this risk.

Posting a sign that a security system and cameras are in operation is a good idea. A security system sign is a great deterrent.

Neighborhood Watch

There is security in numbers. A neighborhood watch program adds security to all the houses in the neighborhood. Posting signs that there is a neighborhood watch will act as a deterrent to criminals. Knowing who your neighbors are and vice versa adds security to your neighborhood. It is a good practice to let your neighbors know that you will be gone for an extended period and when you will be back if you are going on a trip or vacation. While you may want neighbors to be informed to some degree, advertising more widely that you will be away from your home is less desirable. Avoid announcing your travel dates when seeking a house or pet sitter. With increased social media and local email lists, people outside of your immediate circles could access your plans and use that information.

Make it Appear as if You are Home

Simply leaving one light on in the house can give the appearance that someone is home even when nobody is around. If nobody is home for an extended time, such as a vacation, keep shades as they would typically be (open or closed), and use timers to control lights, music, or the television. Increasingly, “smart home” technology can enable homeowners to control the environment from a distance. Consider stopping deliveries or, better yet, have someone stop by daily or stay at home to pick up mail and newspapers and check on the house while you are gone.

Dogs

In addition to companionship, a dog could be an excellent deterrent to a burglar. Barking serves as an alarm, helping to detect an intruder as well. Even small dogs who are not a physical threat can be a deterrent by simply barking at intruders. When they hear a dog, would-be criminals often move on to a different house.

Safes

Securing your valuables in a safe won’t stop a criminal from getting into your house, but it will prevent them from stealing certain valuables should they get in. Although safes are heavy and hard to move, ensure you bolt your safe down to stop a criminal from removing it. The potential for valuables to be inside is worth the effort of removing a safe. Consider storing valuable paperwork (deeds, wills, etc.), guns & ammunition, cash, and valuable jewelry in your safe.