Simple Ways to Make Your Home More Secure

Research has shown that approximately four burglaries happen every minute in the United States each year.  So, it makes sense to think about implementing some security measures to protect your home.  However, before you go out and buy a large security system, consider the following tips.  There are a number of simple, and affordable ways to improve your home’s security and deter would-be burglars from breaking and entering.

1. Make Sure Everyone in the Household Understands About Security

One of the easiest things you can do to make your home more secure is to speak to everyone in your household and let them know what you expect them to do as part of their daily routine.  This could include things such as ensuring the windows and doors are locked when not in the room, not opening the door to unknown visitors, and keeping the alarm system activated – no matter whether you’re out in the garden or just popping round to the neighbors.

2. Install New Locks

The weakest part of a door is the lock, and you’d be surprised how easy many are to smash open.  Ensure that you have a grade 1 or grade 2 lock on your access doors, and if you don’t, it’s a good idea to hire a locksmith to install them for you. Alternatively, you can buy and install extra locks from any home depot store.  Just ensure that the stationary part of the lock is heavy duty and made of brass or solid metal.

3. Remove Your ‘Hidden’ Key

The key beneath a rock, under the house mat, in the mailbox -no matter where you hide it, stop.  You’d be surprised at how many people hide their house keys, and how many burglars know where to look.  So, instead of leaving the door practically wide open for burglars, keep your home more secure and give your key to a neighbor instead.

4. Eliminate Hiding Spots

It’s also important to eliminate hiding spots in your front or back yard.  If you have an overgrown hedge, for example, this is the perfect place for a burglar to hide and watch your house before making a move.  Make sure all of your hedges are trimmed back, and that everything in your yard is well spaced.

5. Make the Front Yard More Secure

Finally, if it’s easy for anyone to walk into your front yard, it’s time to make it more secure.  Start by installing garden railings around your property, so that your front yard can only be accessed by gates.  Those who have some DIY experience can do this themselves, though make sure you have the appropriate safety equipment, such as goggles, gloves and welding helmets (which you can buy from a site like www.weldingoutfitter.com) before you start.  Steel, aluminum and copper are the ideal materials to use.  You should also install some security lighting around the exterior of your property.  Most burglaries occur during the evening, and lighting is a good deterrent.

Can you think of any other ways to make your home more secure?  Let us know in the comments.