You will probably already have the usual safety features installed in your home. But are there any extra steps that you can do to help ensure the safety of your family? You’ll be happy to know that there is plenty that can be done. To help you out, this blog post is packed full of home security secrets that you need to know.
Your Computer Is Now A Threat
Computers are a big deal in all our lives these days. And you will no doubt have one in your home, especially if you have your very own home office. Unfortunately, the more we use our computers, the bigger risk they come to our home security. You need to make sure that you have the most up to date security systems protecting your computer. These will help reduce the threat from viruses and hackers. These programs and software will let you know when there is an update to download. It is very important that you do this is soon as one becomes available. That way, you can be sure your computer always has the best protection. If your kids use your computer, it could be worth installing parental controls. So that you know they aren’t looking at things that they shouldn’t be.
You Can Watch Your Home From Your Phone
Many families install CCTV cameras onto their property to try and keep burglars at bay. CCTV is thought to be on of the best ways to deter intruders from entering homes. But now, thanks to many modern tech advances, it is now possible to keep an eye on your home even when you are out and about. And it’s all down to new CCTV models. Many can now connect to smartphones via Bluetooth connections or apps. Simply tune into your cameras on your phone, and you can see exactly what they are picking up. That means you can call the police from wherever you may be if you have cause for concern.
Your Child’s Drawers Are A Great Hiding Place
If you have a lot of valuable jewelry, you may be wondering where the best place to keep it is. Don’t store it with your regular jewels in jewelry boxes. This will be the first place where thieves will look for it. Running out of ideas of where to hide your valuables? Take a look in your kid’s’ bedrooms for inspiration. In fact, their clothes drawers are some of the best hiding places in your house. Burglars won’t think to look there, and you don’t have to worry about your kids playing with your precious jewels. After all, when was the last time they tidied anything away into their drawers?!
Forget About Keys
Many people leave their spare keys outside under their doormats or flower pots. This may be a great idea in case the kids ever lock themselves out, but it’s not such a great idea when the burglars find the key. More and more intruders are wising up to this trick and snooping around in front gardens to find keys to let themselves in. So, it’s a good idea to forget about keys altogether. Get a key code and lock for your doors. These will open when the correct code is punched in. That way, no one will ever get locked out of your home. They just need to remember the code! And there is no way a burglar will be able to guess the code.
Plant Thorny Plants Underneath Windows
Ground Floor windows are one of the easiest entryways for intruders. If possible, you need to make it difficult for anyone to climb into them. One of the best ways to do this is to plant some thorny shrubs or bushes right under the windows. Not many people will want to risk getting pricked on the bush just to break into a house. But not only do they serve a practical purpose, though. They can also help your garden to look good too.
Don’t Let Burglars Know You’re On Holiday
If a passing burglar suspects that you and your family are away on holiday, they will be much more likely to try and break in. There are some easy steps you can take to prevent anyone knowing that you are away, though. Tell your neighbors that you are going away. Give them a spare key so they can regularly check your home. You should also ask them if they can pick up any letters that fall through your door. A pile of letters is one of the main ways an intruder will judge if you are away for a prolonged period of time. Turn your phone’s ringer down to a minimum as well. It shouldn’t be possible for a passerby to hear your phone go to the answering machine.
Use Trusted Locksmiths
The next time you need a spare set of keys cutting, make sure you go to a licensed locksmith. There are many frauds who pretend to be locksmiths. These people then cut an extra set of keys when they are working on yours. The extra keys are often sold to burglars for a lot of money. So in order to keep your home and family safe, make sure you only get your keys cut by reputable locksmiths.
Joining Neighborhood Watch Can Make A Big Difference
Many neighborhoods now have an association set up by residents that aims to watch out for untoward behavior. These associations aim to reduce the area’s crime and burglary rate. Generally speaking, the crime rate for those areas that have a neighborhood watch scheme is quite low. Usually lower than those that don’t have one. It’s also a great way to get to know the people who live in your neighborhood. You won’t be expected to do much. Just go to monthly meetings and keep an eye out for any strange behavior in your local area.
Hopefully, this blog post will have given you plenty of ideas on how you can increase your home’s security!