Creating a More Secure Home: Best Practices, Tips, and Considerations

Home security is becoming an increasing concern for homeowners, property managers, and renters. Thankfully, there are a number of home security products and options available that are both affordable and easy to use. If you are concerned about home security, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Know Which Entry Points May Be Vulnerable
The place to start when assessing the security of a property is looking at the main entry points to determine their vulnerability. When looking at these entry points, things may not be as secure as they may seem on the surface.

Entrance Doors: There are three significant areas where an entrance door's security can be improved. The first way to improve security is to install a deadbolt lock. t. The second is to improve the quality of the door itself. The most secure entrance doors are made of heavier grade steel. Finally, use longer screws to mount hinges deeper into the door frame.

Windows: Windows can be a challenge for several reasons. Many homeowners enjoy opening windows to circulate fresh airBut even when closed and locked, windows can be easily compromised. Window security can be improved by upgrading the standard locking mechanisms on the window or by adding “blocks” or “pegs” into a window frame that will prevent it from opening wide enough to allow a person to get through. Homeowners could also upgrade windows to double-pane or safety glass windows. Like in an automobile, safety glass has a clear layer of plastic film between the sheets of glass that make it much more difficult to shatter.

Patio Doors: Sliding or French patio doors allow plenty of sunshine and fresh air into a home while offering nice views, but are also a tempting entrance point for burglars. By installing higher quality doors with safety glass and upgraded locking systems, homeowners can improve the security quality of these doors.

Garage Doors: Because of their size, some may have a false sense of security with their garage doors. Older garage doors may have worn hinges or hardware and materials. Garage doors with windows also offer a weak point for access. Modern doors offer higher levels of security and improved construction. Homeowners can boost garage door security by ensuring any garage door opening devices are secure in the car or home. Also, adding a manual lock inside of the garage door will make it much more difficult to access from the outside.

Don't Send an Invitation to Burglars
Sometimes homeowners send unintentional invitations to burglars, letting them know the home may be unoccupied. A prime example is posting you will be away on social media.

Grass that is overgrown or unkempt may be the sign a burglar needs to attempt a break-in. If you will be gone for an extended period, hire someone to maintain your lawn. In cold weather areas, arrangements should be made for snow removal. Snow that isn't plowed or shoveled and walkways without footprints are also a sure sign of inactivity.

An accumulation of mail in the mailbox or newspapers in the driveway may be indicative of an owner's absence. Stop the mail if you will be gone for more than a day or two and halt any newspaper delivery.

A home that is dark from dusk to dawn may also send a signal that the coast is clear. Install a couple of inexpensive timers on lights in at least a couple of rooms in your absence can create doubt. Leaving a radio or television on can also keep an intruder out.

Know the Types of Security Systems Available
While there are more security systems available than ever, there are also more types of security systems. A basic alarm system, for example, may just sound a loud alarm if a door or window is opened. This will only serve to scare any intruder away but will not necessarily notify the homeowner or authorities. On the other end of the spectrum is a fully monitored system that sends a notification to a monitoring center should there be a break-in. In between, there are a variety of cameras, monitors and alarms, many of which can be connected to a smartphone.

Protecting Home Networks from Cyber Criminals
With home security systems and smart appliances, protecting your home network is more important than ever. Avoid default settings for modems and routers. Set your own passwords using a random combination of letters, numbers, and symbols in both upper and lower case.

Improving security can range from the simple and inexpensive to complicated and costly. Any steps you take are sure to improve the security of your home.