How to Protect Your Home

Security cameras

A professionally installed CCTV system enables you, as a homeowner, to monitor the comings and goings of your property at all times. Simple but effective, the mere presence of a security camera is enough to put off many criminals from attempting a break in. In fact, it’s worth advertising the fact you have cameras using a sign, such as ‘Security Cameras in Use’.

To upgrade the protection that these cameras offer, the footage can often be fed over to your smartphone so you can keep tabs on your house wherever you are. If you’re still concerned about times when your property is left vacant, consider using the services of remote monitoring. These security specialists watch your property 24/7 and will immediately be alerted to any signs of movement, making sure to notify both owners and the police, as well as issuing a verbal warning to the intruders.

Lights and alarms

Entrances, such as windows and doors, are worthy places of motion sensor lighting. It’s more difficult and not as appealing for criminals to break in whilst being lit up in full visibility, nor are there as many hiding places, making identification easier. Alarms are another important safeguarding technique to be alerted of an intrusion.

Derrents

One of the handiest ways of keeping your home safe from criminals is to put them off trying in the first place. Dogs have been used for hundreds of years to frighten away unwanted visitors, and they are still effective in this high-tech age. Even if you don’t have a dog, putting up a sign saying ‘Beware of the Dog’ is a cunning white lie to deter break in attempts. As we’ve mentioned before, the presence of security equipment, such as lights and cameras, are also incredibly effective deterrence techniques.

Landscaping

Landscaping of gardens and foliage on your property can influence how people, including intruders, navigate the outside of your property. Think about trimming bushes and trees next to your home, as this can reduce the amount of shade and coverage available to an intruder. You may wish to plant some thorny species around window areas to discourage entry at these points.

Holiday safety

In the excitement of going away on a relaxing break, don’t forget to make sure your home security is in order before you jet off. Inform a trusted neighbour that you will be gone so they can watch out for any suspicious activity. Never write a note to postal workers and leave it on your door; this is advertising the fact that the house is empty to anybody that walks by. Another telltale sign that there’s nobody home is the ringing of unanswered phones, so if possible, turn down the volume of the phone to play down the fact that the house is unoccupied.

Doors and windows

The best way to assess the security of your home is to look over your property with a burglar’s eye, noting any weaknesses or potential avenues of access. Healthy windows and doors are essential for home safety, as are working, sturdy locks. If you see any problems, have them fixed as soon as possible; protecting your home and family cannot wait!