Top 10 Tips for Making Your Home More Safe and Secure

Keeping our homes secure should always be a top priority. Our homes are our sanctuaries, where we go to relax, unwind, and spend quality time with our families. However, the sad reality is that our homes aren't always secure, and we need to take extra measures to protect ourselves and our properties. Fortunately, there are many simple and effective ways to make your home safer and more secure. In this article, we'll go over the top 10 tips for securing your home from intruders and preparing for emergencies. Whether you're a homeowner or a renter, these tips can help provide you with the peace of mind you deserve.

1. Install a security system

A good security system is a great place to start when it comes to home security. It can be a significant deterrent to intruders, as well as providing you with peace of mind knowing that you have 24/7 protection. You can choose a security system that includes both indoor and outdoor cameras, so you can keep an eye on your property from anywhere, at any time.

When choosing a security system, consider one that includes motion sensors. This will alert you if anyone enters your home unexpectedly. It's also worth investing in a system that can send mobile alerts to your phone, so you can stay up to date with any activity.

2. Keep your doors locked

One of the simplest things you can do to improve home security is to keep your doors locked. This may sound obvious, but according to a survey by Consumer Reports, around 28% of homeowners admit to not even locking their front door when they leave the house!

To keep your doors secure, make sure they have good quality deadbolts. It's also worth considering adding a security bar to sliding doors, to prevent them from being forced open. If you have a front door with decorative glass, consider replacing it with laminated glass, which is harder to break.

3. Add outdoor lighting

Outdoor lighting is a great way to deter would-be burglars. Motion-activated lights around the perimeter of your property will startle anyone who may be lurking around your home. It's also worthwhile adding lights near all entrances to your home, including the back yard.

If you're worried about the cost of running outdoor lights, consider solar-powered options. These will not only save you money, but they're also more environmentally friendly.

4. Invest in smart home technology

Smart home technology has taken home security to the next level. You can now control your home's security features remotely, from your phone or tablet. For example, you can remotely lock and unlock doors, turn on lights, and even receive alerts when someone enters your home.

Smart home technology is also great for energy conservation. You can control the temperature in your home from your phone, meaning you can turn off your heating or cooling when you're not there, and turn it on just before you return. This can save you money on your energy bills.

5. Get to know your neighbors

Having a good relationship with your neighbors can be a valuable asset in terms of home security. They can help keep an eye on your property when you're away, and alert you if they notice anything suspicious.

It's also worth joining your local neighborhood watch. This is a group of residents who work together to keep the neighborhood safe. They may organize regular meetings, events and training sessions to help residents stay informed and aware of the latest safety issues.

6. Consider a security door

Security doors are engineered to withstand force and tampering attempts, making them an excellent choice for front and back doors. They come in a variety of styles and materials, so you can choose one that matches the look of your home.

Security doors also provide added protection against weather damage and pests, as they're made from sturdy, durable materials.

7. Use a safe

A safe is a great way to keep valuable items secure, including important documents, jewelry, and electronics. Look for a fireproof, waterproof safe that can protect your items in case of fire, flood or other emergencies.

Safes come in a range of sizes and styles, so you can choose one that fits your needs. Some safes can even be installed into the floor or wall, meaning they can't be removed easily by burglars.

8. Don't give burglars a hiding place

Tall trees and shrubs can provide cover for burglars, so keep them trimmed so they don't provide any hiding places. This is especially important near windows and doors, where burglars are most likely to attempt entry.

9. Keep valuables out of sight

Leaving valuable items such as electronics or jewelry in plain sight can be a temptation for would-be burglars. Keep them out of sight when not in use, and don't leave them lying around the house.

It's also worth keeping expensive items, such as televisions and laptops, out of view from the street. This will prevent anyone from seeing them from outside and being tempted to break in.

10. Have an emergency plan

Even with the best security measures in place, emergencies can still happen. Make sure you have a plan in place for emergencies such as fires, storms or break-ins.

Your emergency plan should include a list of emergency contacts, including your local police and fire department. It's also worth discussing the plan with your family, so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.

Taking these steps can help make your home more safe and secure. It's important to remember that home security is an ongoing process, and you should regularly assess your security measures to make sure they're still effective. With a little effort, you can create a comfortable, secure environment for you and your family to call home.