Whether you are at home or leaving your home unoccupied, you can benefit from these home security tips. Here are practical guidelines to make your vacant home a less attractive target for criminals. This can help to keep you and your family safe.
1. Lock The Windows
Windows are a common entry point for criminals. Often, people pull the window closed but fail to secure it, so all it needs is a push or a pull from the outside and your home is open. Manufacturer latches on windows are not always effective so it is advisable to check them. If necessary, install an additional latch or aftermarket window lock on all your windows. Key-operated levers are also effective.
To make your home even more burglar proof, you could add window security film to reinforce the glass, window or glass break sensors can be installed, and window bars can be installed. These do not have to be unsightly as today’s window bars are transparent barriers manufactured from LEXAN polycarbonate, one of the strongest thermoplastics available.
An old-school tip is to plant prickly bushes under first-floor windows to further impede would-be intruders.
2. Set Up A Security System
Even the most basic security system is better than nothing. However, you should consider installing one that comes with professional monitoring and home automation. Today there are options for every budget and every other applicable factor. Consider your neighborhood and the specific needs of your property. If you are exposed and vulnerable to intrusion, you will need a more elaborate system. Alternatively, if you live within a high-security estate, perhaps you do not need the most sophisticated system.
Your local police department can furnish you with neighborhood crime statistics and some will even help by doing a security evaluation of your home.
3. Don’t Forget The Garage
The garage is becoming a very popular entry point to your home with criminals. Even if the garage does not give them access into the home, chances are they can get their hands on a lot of valuable items right there. It is important that you keep interior and exterior garage doors locked.
Do not leave your garage door remote opener in your car; keep it with your keys in the house so that burglars can’t take it from your car. If you use security codes to open the house or the garage, keep them to yourself. Do not enter the code in front of other people. If you suspect that the code may have been compromised, do not hesitate to change it.
4. Lock Down Your Wi-Fi Network
Cyber security is every bit as important as physical security in today’s world. Your WiFi network holds access to your personal and financial information. Additionally, if you are using home automation with the network connected to your smart devices, it can also make your house vulnerable. Make sure that your router is secured by enabling WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) or WPA2 encryption. Use a firewall and install antivirus and anti-malware protection.
5. Eliminate Hiding Places
Trees and shrubs may give burglars a hiding place. Keep trees and plants that a thief could use to hide in trimmed. Remove plants that could aid a burglar in climbing your home. Even high walls can sometimes present intruders with cover.
Hire an Estate Management Services Company
Keeping your home safe is part of retaining its value. An estate management services company can keep an eye on your house using passive and active measures like regularly checking the security system and security cameras, emptying your mailbox when you are not around, giving you peace of mind with a full spectrum service to keep you and your property safe and sound.
Contact Florida Estate Management Services without delay. Our home watch services will give you the ultimate assurance that your home is safe and secure – above and beyond these home security tips.
