Top tips for securing your home
If you live in an area with high break-in rates, it can be extremely unsettling.
Being at work or visiting friends, you can never be sure that your home is safe. Then again, when you're at home, asleep or otherwise, you can feel even more vulnerable. Thankfully there are many ways to make your home unattractive to burglars, while keeping it aesthetically pleasing to yourself and guests of course.
How to improve home security
- Upgrade your locks: The front door is the obvious point of entry for many would-be burglars. We can help you install high-quality deadbolts on all exterior doors and ensure they are properly reinforced with long screws. Consider upgrading to smart locks for added convenience and security features like remote access control and activity monitoring.
- Anti-snap locks: Many burglars use a simple technique with a screwdriver to disable and open a lock by breaking it through sheer force. With an anti-snap lock, the lock still breaks but in such a way that the door remains locked, and the rest of the lock cannot be accessed and forced. This makes it almost impossible to break in by this method.
- Install security cameras: Set up surveillance cameras around your property to monitor for suspicious activity and deter potential intruders. Opt for cameras with motion detection, night vision, and cloud storage for easy access to footage.
- Illuminate your property: Installing outdoor lighting, including motion-sensor lights, to illuminate dark areas around your home is a great deterrent for break-ins. Adequate lighting can deter intruders and make it easier to spot suspicious activity.
- Secure windows: Install window locks or reinforcements, such as window bars or security film, to prevent forced entry through windows. Consider planting thorny bushes or installing window alarms for additional protection.
- Secure sliding doors: Sliding doors are often a weak point in a home's security. You can install additional locks or security bars on sliding glass doors to prevent them from being lifted off their tracks. Place a wooden dowel or metal rod in the door track to prevent it from being forced open.
- Trim shrubs and trees: Keep shrubs and trees trimmed to eliminate potential hiding spots for intruders near windows and doors. This improves visibility and reduces the risk of someone sneaking onto your property undetected.
- Invest in a home security system: Install a comprehensive home security system that includes alarms, sensors, and monitoring services. Choose a system with professional monitoring and smartphone integration for added peace of mind.
- Secure your garage: Ensure that your garage is secure by installing strong locks on garage doors and windows. Consider adding a garage door sensor to alert you if the door is opened unexpectedly.
- Use timers for lights: Use timers or smart lighting systems to create the illusion of occupancy when you're away from home. This can deter burglars by making it appear as though someone is present.
- Neighbourhood Watch: Get involved in a Neighbourhood Watch program or establish communication with your neighbours to look out for each other's properties and report any suspicious activity.
- Secure your Wi-Fi network: Ensure that your home Wi-Fi network is secure by using strong passwords and encryption. Regularly update your network security features to prevent unauthorised access.
If you are in doubt about your home's security, contact JC.Locksmiths for a no-obligation consultation: 07849 191413.
