Home Improvement Tips & Tricks

If you want to increase your home security, there are 5 improvements you can implement that will help fortify your home and prevent a home invasion. 

1.    Use the door locks you already have
Some people believe that since they live in a safe and quiet neighborhood that they don’t need to lock their doors, but this is a myth.  Make it a daily routine to check all locks and teach your children to do the same.  If your locks need to be replaced, be sure to install ones that are Grade 1 (ANSI) deadbolt locks.  Also verify that you have locks on any patio doors which are an easy target for intruders.

2.     Reinforce your windows
Because windows are often left open and unsecure, they can be more susceptible to break-ins.  For proper home security, your windows should open no more than 6 inches.Some windows have this feature built in, or it can be accomplished by dropping a dowel 6 inches shorter than the length of the window into the frame’s metal gutter.Install sheet-metal screws in the upper window track of a sliding window, and if you can afford it, buy glass laminate film which can make windows more difficult to break.  Glass break detectors in conjunction with a home alarm system will catch a burglar trying to enter your home and immediately contact the local authorities. 

3.    Secure the perimeter
Another way to increase home security is by using porch lights and motion detection lights which are inexpensive and makes a burglar think twice about robbing a home.  Trimming bushes and shrubs away from sidewalks and doorways prevents potential intruders from finding a place to hide.Even building a fence around the perimeter of your property can deter a burglar. 

4.    Buy an alarm system
Homes without security systems are 3 times more likely to be burglarized than homes with alarm systems in place.  Depending on your needs and the type of house, homeowners can have either a wired or wireless alarm system installed.  Installation is typically under 100 dollars, and monitoring services can range from 30 – 50 dollars a month.  Home alarm systems not only notify the police about a burglary but they can also be used to send alerts for carbon monoxide poisoning, flood and fire emergencies.Coupled with a surveillance camera, a home alarm system can be one of the best deterrents against home invasions.

5.   Don’t a let a potential intruder know you are on vacation
The summer months are a popular time for home burglaries, because this is when many families go on vacation.When you are gone for an extended period of time, make it appear as if you are still at home.  Have the post office hold your mail.  Install digital timers which will automatically turn electrical devices and lights on and off according to a set schedule.If possible, arrange for your neighbors to pick up packages and newspapers, water the lawn and open and close blinds at different times of the day.Implementing these simple precautions and ensuring routines are somewhat unpredictable will prevent an unexpected discovery when returning home. 

It normally only takes burglar 3 minutes to rob a home.  By taking steps to increase your home security, you not only keep your valuables secure, but you also provide reassurance and peace of mind to those who are important in your life.