Setting up the fancy decor in your home is indeed more fun than having to worry about theft or fire as part of your security. However, keeping security a priority is what keeps a fancy home from getting robbed or getting caught in a fire. One of the primary things that most families search for when deciding to buy or build a new home is the security and safety of the area.
Be it a rented apartment or your new home, the security of your home is a vital aspect. But, the safety of an area is not enough in itself and homeowners need to consider some added safety of their house. Even if a community is deemed safe, it doesn’t mean your personal belongings are safe from loss, damage, or destruction. Your home is not completely safe until and unless you are implementing the following home security equipment and practices.
Door to door security but don’t forget the windows
One of the simplest ways that homeowners can improve their home security is to secure their doors and windows with strong door frames, reliable and protective hinges, and additional safety equipment such as deadbolts, smart locks, a strike plate, or a video doorbell over modern or unique fence go for a strong one.
You must inspect your doors and windows and be careful about not leaving them unlocked when you are not home. If you are moving into a new residence, it is an ideal move to change the door locks to ensure that none other than your family has access to it.
Moreover, when it comes to windows, they need extra security as they are the most common entry points for burglars. If you have glass windows, consider installing motion sensors or key-operated levers. For additional safety reinforcement, you can install window security film, metal window bars, or plant thorny bushes right underneath the ground floor windows.
Don’t undervalue the importance of landscape lighting
You might have noticed this one thing in movies involving heists- vandals and other criminals detest being in the spotlight. Keeping that in mind, light up the surrounding area of your home with bright outdoor lighting. Apart from the backyard, the front pathways and the garage area must be well lit too.
The whole concept of lighting up your home and outdoor structures serves a dual purpose- it keeps away intruders and lowers the risk of people stumbling on the way up to your entrance. To make your outdoor security lighting system effective and energy-efficient, you can use solar-powered lights, smart light bulbs, and smart outlets that work on a schedule. You can also use motion-activated lights if you do not wish to put on a timer.
Smart security system for a smarter home
You might have read news about thieves getting caught on security camera footage. Security cameras are one home guaranteed solution that compliments your effort in protecting the things in your home. Experts often recommend using a security camera that can be monitored through a mobile app so that homeowners can track real-time footage and store it if ever needed.
Although securing your doors and windows with cameras falls under the demarcations of home security, there are additional ways in which you can protect the things in your home. Whether it is a primary DIY security system or home automation and professional monitoring system, your personal belongings are not quite safe until you have one.
Given the plethora of home security options in the market today, you need not worry about compromising on protection while thinking of a budget. The best way to choose a system for your home is to evaluate the needs of your house and the neighborhood. It particularly means that you must consider the valuable things you need to protect inside your home. Additionally, consider the following home automation systems:
- Schedule door locks,
- Remote control lights and cameras,
- Smart security alarms,
- Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide monitors,
- Smart doorbell,
- Driveway sensor.
Additional home security for tenants
Home security is specifically essential for rental homes and apartments. This is because tenants; personal belongings are not covered by their landlord’s insurance. Many tenants are under the impression that their landlord’s insurance would protect them from events of theft, fire, or natural disaster. As much as this is not the case, tenants have to face additional expenses for repairs if they do not have a renters insurance policy.
Nonetheless, your landlord’s insurance policy is likely to cover the apartment structure and other properties that he owns, your personal belongings such as furniture, laptop, or TV will not fall under the coverage. This is why you don’t have to undervalue your things when getting renters insurance, as it is a great way to protect your expensive belongings and get yourself covered in times of unfortunate events.
Lockdown the doorway to your Wi-Fi network
Once you know how protecting your Wi-Fi network is connected to protecting the things inside your home, you are one step from changing your Wi-Fi password right away. Maintaining the privacy of your Wi-Fi network is as important as hiding the insides of your homes by using blinds and curtains on the windows.
The wireless network in your home is a path to obtaining financial and personal information. But, if you use smart home devices and security systems that are connected to your Wi-Fi network, your house is vulnerable to breaking. When you connect your Wi-Fi network to smart home gadgets and home security systems, it provides direct access to your home. A few simple ways to protect yourself from this vicious loop is to:
- Using a secure and strong password,
- Using a firewall,
- Installing anti-malware and antivirus protection,
- Enabling WPA2 or WPA encryption,
- Hiding and renaming your home network.
Conclusion
The task of securing the things in your home must not feel like a chore but a responsibility. The most expensive things at your home are not safe until and unless you consider the above-mentioned home security systems and safety measures. It is best to remember that prevention is the key to the security of your home as well as your family.
