15 Tips to Make Sure Your Home Is Secure

Is your home as secure as possible? You don’t need to put up a 10-foot fence; in fact, check out the last tip in this list to find out why you should be doing the opposite. Follow these simple tips now to be prepared.

1. Install a Home Security System

The most obvious and helpful way to keep your house safe is to install a home security system. There are many different kinds to choose from, including:

  • Doorbell cameras
  • Glass break alarms
  • Smart locks

However, some burglars know how to disable these or avoid setting them off. This can also signal that there are things of value inside the home because they are worth protecting. If that’s the case, make sure you have solid backups, like door handles and locks that work.

2. Check Door Handles

Make sure all of your entrances are equipped with good-quality door handles. Check the front and back doors, inside and out, for jiggles. Some telltale signs of door hardware that is about to bust include:

  • Loose screws
  • Ill-fitting keys
  • Scraping sounds

The door hardware can also be the wrong grade for the type of door you have. Furthermore, you need to grease the hardware to keep it functioning properly. Investing in the proper door handles and equipment can mitigate these issues in the first place.

3. Don’t Put the Key Under a Mat

Speaking of keys, you probably have placed your spare under a door mat or potted plant. It was okay because your friend was going to pick it up soon and use it, right? This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Key hiding spots are normally easy to guess, so just steer clear.

4. Get Your Mail Promptly

If your mailbox doesn’t have a lock, make sure you are retrieving your mail pieces soon after they arrive. You never know what sort of information will be in those letters. Potential burglars could use this to gather intel.

5. Always Lock the Doors and Windows

When promptly getting your mail, you may forget or choose not to lock your door behind you. There have been cases where people slip in during these quick moments of vulnerability. Remember to lock your door any time you leave, even if for a brief period of time.

Also, remember to lock your doors as soon as you are inside. Make sure you check windows to ensure they are secured. Burglars will look for unlocked doors and windows first.

6. Get a Security Bar

If you live in an apartment where you can’t change the door locks and you are worried about their efficacy, there are security bars available. They wedge between the handle and the ground, preventing the door from opening all the way. Usually, they are made of steel for maximum strength. If you have a sliding glass door, you can also place a similar security bar horizontally so the door will not be able to slide open.

7. Don’t Forget Cyber Security

To be safe in your home, you’ll also have to secure your online practices. There are VPNs and Wi-Fi security systems that can prevent hackers from gaining any info. Make sure you have a proper password and don’t share it with anyone outside the home.

8. Light It Up

Lights inside and outside the house will deter robbers from trying to break in. Leave a light on inside to make it look like someone is home, even if they are not. Furthermore, place floodlights around your home’s landscape. This illuminates the area and makes it harder for intruders to remain unseen.

9. Secure Garages, Attics, and Crawlspaces

Don’t forget about the extra spaces in your home. These could go unnoticed until it’s too late. Does your crawlspace have an easy entrance into the home? Lock it down.

10. Get a Dog

Your pet can deter intruders. Get a dog or even just a barking soundtrack. Most ex-criminals say that the presence of a large dog would deter them from trying to enter the home.

11. Change Up Your Routine

If possible, don’t go on a walk at the same time every day. Seasoned criminals will watch and know when to expect you to be away from the home. Switch it up.

12. Be Wary of Knocks

Burglars usually will knock first to test the waters. Don’t answer, but say something so they know you’re there.

13. Keep the TV On

A television or radio blasting signals that someone is home. As long as it doesn’t bug your neighbors, leave on the tunes.

14. Hide Your Nice Cars

Expensive cars signal to robbers that you have money. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t buy nice cars. However, keep them in a secured garage, out of sight when not in use.