6 Ways to Make Your Home More Secure

We often neglect security when thinking about updates to our home, but your property is an asset that you want to protect at all times. If you’re unsure where to start, here are six ways that you can make your home safe and secure at all times.

Install an Alarm

So many homes don’t have an alarm system in place which leaves properties open to potential security threats. Luckily, home security systems are more affordable than ever and there are options to suit every budget. The latest in alarms range from motion-triggered systems to CCTV cameras which make it easy to see who is trying to access your property. When you’re making your purchase, just make sure that you choose a model that is approved by your insurance.

Upgrade Your Garage Door

Outbuildings like garages store a lot of expensive tools, equipment and your vehicle, so it should be a priority when it comes to upgrading your home security. But many people forget about their outdoor space when they think about making the property secure from theft and break-ins. Making the switch to an automatic garage door opener over a manual alternative will provide you with much more security and reassurance that your belongings are protected. Plus, they add convenience and easy maintenance to this area of your property too.

Illuminate the Property

Keeping your home in the shadows makes it easier for people to break-in undetected, so lights are a simple but effective way of making sure your home is safe from intruders. Try to choose lights that come on if someone approaches your home as this can be an effective deterrent against anyone who shouldn’t be there. It’s also a convenient feature if you’re coming back home in the evening.

Don’t Hide Your Keys Somewhere Obvious

We’re all familiar with the trope of leaving a spare key under the front doormat or a plant pot, but it’s the first place a burglar will check. While it’s certainly beneficial to have a spare key, in case you lose yours or leave it inside by accident, you should carefully consider where you leave a spare. If you trust your neighbours, they can be a good option to give a spare key to. Alternatively, you may find it worthwhile to invest in an external key safe that you can store multiple keys in with the knowledge that you’re the only person who can gain access to them.

Inspect the Locks on Your Windows

Burglars will try to find almost any weak point in your home to gain access to your belongings, so old or broken locks on windows are an easy target. Old locks are also much easier to pick so even if they function well enough, it’s unlikely they’re offering much security. To keep your home safe from unwanted access, you may want to consider upgrading or replacing the locks on your windows and rear doors to make them more secure. Window restrictors are also inexpensive but can work wonders in preventing intruders from having the ability to climb through if they do gain access.

Automate Your Home

If you’re worried about leaving your home unattended for long periods, a great solution is to have your lamps set on a timer so that it looks as though people are home or investing in automatic blinds that you can close even when you’re not around. Other automated options include installing a smart doorbell that allows you to communicate with people coming to your door even when you’re not physically there, as well as automating your TV to come on and off when you’re away on holiday or work trips. These are all signals that burglars look out for to see if your property is vacant, meaning you can give the impression of being at home without needing to be.

Conclusion

Securing your home doesn’t have to be challenging but it does require a bit of careful consideration in order to check that each aspect of your property has a solution in place. It’s a good idea to think about the areas of your home which are most at risk and prioritise those before working on the rest of your home. Taking the time to identify potential security risks and taking action as soon as possible will help you to keep you, your family and your belongings safe.