Ultimate Guide to Revamping Your Home Security
Home security can be mind-boggling for beginners. This confusion is compounded by the fact that many decisions relating to your home’s design affect security in some way. If you are concerned because your home security strategy is inadequate or you have no strategy at all, this guide will show you the most important steps for burglar-proofing your home.
Call a Home Security Consultant
Homeowners should look at their property from the mindset of a burglar to determine any weak points, but it is beneficial to have another pair of eyes look it over as well in case you have missed something. Security companies like ADT sometimes offer such consultations. A Miami ADT home security expert will have considerable experience in spotting points of entry for burglars and closing them off. This expert will also be able to advise you on the best alarm system setup for your home.
Update Your Technology
These days, people typically replace their computers, cell phones, and MP3 players every few years. However, they rarely think about how old their alarm system is. Just like consumer electronics, alarm systems are becoming more advanced every day. Burglars occasionally develop methods of bypassing old and obsolete security systems. You should always make sure that you are securing your home with the most modern system available to deprive them of this advantage. If your alarm system is several years old, contact an ADT Miami alarm system vendor to see if anything better is available.
Redesign the Lawn
Home security mainly involves the house itself, but the yard plays a role as well. There are many things homeowners can do to make their yard into the first layer of security. First and foremost, get rid of any landscaping features that could give burglars a place to hide. A row of bushes along the entire perimeter of the house is an example of a landscaping feature that should be avoided. In addition, laying down gravel around the windows and entry doors could cause any prowlers to blow their cover since gravel makes a conspicuous noise when stepped on. Finally, thorny shrubs such as hawthorn, rosebushes, and briar will make the burglar’s task even more unpleasant.
Rearrange the Interior
While there are plenty of “smash and grab” thieves who simply pick a random house and take what they can get, there are also thieves who are capable of meticulous planning. One of their methods for selecting a good target is to look in the windows to spot expensive items. Peer through your windows from the outside, and take note of what is visible. If you see a plasma screen TV, an expensive stereo, and a brand new computer, you might be inadvertently advertising your goods to neighborhood burglars. Rearrange your rooms so that these items cannot be seen from the sidewalk. Alternatively, you can install blinds that cover the bottom half of the window. This way, you can let the sunlight in while keeping your valuables concealed.
Secure Your Valuables
Most people have small valuables in their homes such as jewelry, emergency cash, gold coins, or savings bonds. Some homeowners hide these items around the house; others lock them in a safe. You can get the best of both worlds by installing a hidden safe. Many companies manufacture safes that are designed to fit between wall studs, and they can be covered with a heavy piece of furniture. Make sure that the safe is securely bolted into the studs. Even if a criminal finds the safe, they will have a very hard time opening it.
Home security is much simpler than it appears at first. It is just a matter of getting expert advice, making use of the most advanced technology, and laying out your home and lawn with security in mind. Taking these steps will go a long way towards deterring thieves.
