- Lock your doors and windows when you’re not home, and make sure all entry points are secure. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s surprising how many people forget to do this basic step.
- Install a security system. This can include cameras, motion sensors, and alarms. Make sure to choose a reputable company and follow their recommendations for placement and use.
- Consider adding smart locks to your doors. These allow you to remotely lock and unlock your doors, as well as grant access to friends and family members when you’re not home. Some models even allow you to see who is at the door through a camera and speak to them through a microphone.
- Make sure your home is well-lit. Burglars are less likely to break into a home that is well-lit, as it is easier for neighbors and passersby to spot suspicious activity. Consider installing motion-sensor lights, or setting timers for your indoor lights.
- Keep valuables out of sight. Don’t leave expensive electronics or jewelry in plain view from windows. This can tempt burglars and make it easier for them to determine what valuables you have inside.
- Use window film to make it more difficult for burglars to see inside your home. This can also help protect your privacy.
- Keep your garage door closed and locked. This is especially important if you have an attached garage, as it provides easy access to the rest of your home.
- Don’t advertise your absence. Avoid posting about your travels on social media, and consider stopping the delivery of your mail and newspapers while you’re away.
- Trim your shrubs and trees. Overgrown landscaping can provide cover for burglars and make it harder for neighbors to see what’s going on.
- Use a safe or lockbox to store important documents and valuables. This can include things like passports, birth certificates, and expensive jewelry.
Keeping your home secure is an important consideration for any homeowner. While there are many high-tech options available, there are also simple and affordable hacks that can significantly improve the security of your home
- Lock your doors and windows. This may seem obvious, but it’s surprising how many people neglect to lock their doors and windows, especially when they’re just stepping out for a short time. Make sure to lock all doors and windows, even when you’re home, to prevent burglaries.
- Install deadbolts. Deadbolts are a more secure option than traditional doorknob locks and can help prevent someone from picking the lock or forcing the door open. Make sure to choose a deadbolt that is rated by a third-party testing company, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories).
- Secure sliding doors. Sliding doors can be a weak point in your home’s security. To prevent them from being easily forced open, consider installing a lock that secures the door to the frame, or adding a dowel or rod in the track to block the door from being opened.
- Trim trees and bushes. Overgrown trees and bushes can provide cover for burglars and make it easier for them to break into your home. Trim trees and bushes near windows and doors to eliminate hiding spots and improve visibility around your home.
- Use timers for lights and electronics. Timers can be used to automatically turn on and off lights and electronics, making it appear as though someone is home even when you’re not. This can deter burglars from attempting to break in.
- Use motion-sensor lights. Motion-sensor lights can be a deterrent for burglars because they will turn on when someone approaches, alerting you and potentially scaring off the intruder. They can also help you see who is at your door before you open it.
- Install a security system. Security systems can alert you to any activity in your home and can even be connected to a monitoring service that will contact the authorities if necessary. While they can be expensive, they can provide peace of mind and can even help lower your home insurance premiums.
- Get to know your neighbors. Building relationships with your neighbors can help keep an eye on your home when you’re not there. Consider starting a neighborhood watch program or simply introduce yourself and exchange phone numbers so you can contact each other in case of an emergency.
- Use smart home devices. Smart home devices, such as smart locks, smart lights, and smart security cameras, can be controlled from your smartphone and can provide an extra layer of security for your home.
- Keep valuables out of sight. Burglars are more likely to break into a home if they can see valuable items through the windows. Keep valuables, such as electronics, jewelry, and cash, out of sight or in a secure location to reduce the temptation for burglars.
By implementing these simple and affordable hacks, you can significantly improve the security of your home and protect your family and possessions. While no security measure is foolproof, taking these steps can give you added peace of mind and help prevent burglaries.
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