Our homes are where we should feel safe and secure. We want to protect our loved ones and valuable possessions. The best way to achieve this is by following some basic guidelines to improve home security.
Outside Lighting to Improve Home Security
Keeping the area around the exterior of your house well-lit is an easy way to deter thieves and improve home security. Burglars prefer to hide in the shadows where they can’t be seen by neighbors and people driving by. Place lights strategically outside of doors and around your garage. Also, install lights that use a motion detector to surprise any criminals on your property.
Indoor Lighting
Use your indoor lights to make your home look occupied, even while you’re away. Put lights on timers so they turn on and off automatically when no one is home. Focus on the rooms that have windows on the front of the house.
Door Locks And Keys
Securing your doors is one of the easiest and smartest ways to improve your home security. Your front door should have a high-quality deadbolt lock in addition to the handle lock. Door reinforcement kits can be bought online for a do-it-yourself solution or you can have a professional complete the job.
Don’t hide a spare key outside. People hide keys in obvious places so they don’t forget, but this means that a burglar can easily find the key as well. Instead, give your extra key to a trusted neighbor or friend in case you get locked out. Better yet, install an electronic lock so you only need a code to access your home.
Alarm Systems and Cameras
There are a lot of alarm systems on the market. Some use active monitoring, meaning that if an alarm is triggered, someone from the security company will respond by contacting you and/or the police. These systems usually require professional installation and have a monthly service fee.
Passive systems generally trigger a loud alarm and some come with apps that will alert you on your phone when the alarm goes off.
Cameras also improve home security. Place cameras by the front door, backyard, and driveway. Some cameras will show you who is at your door before answering it. Further, a camera system will help police identify any intruders, making it more likely you’ll recover your belongings if you do experience a break-in.
Improve Home Security Without Spending a Lot Of Money
Basic home security doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Just lighting up the outside of your home, for example, is a big deterrent. Research your options and seek the help of a professional when necessary.
Outlook Home Inspections serves the Greater Charlotte area, Western North Carolina, and Upstate South Carolina with home inspection services for home buyers, sellers, and homeowners. Contact us to book your appointment.