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WHAT IS YOUR SECURITY STRATEGY?
10 Home Security Tips
Having a strategy to secure your home from burglars and keeping your family safe is something everyone should consider. Having the attitude of "It will never happen to me" is a sure way to becoming a victim.
As part of your security strategy, there are many aspects of personal and property based security measures you can incorporate into your plan. However, before you build a security plan, it is important to assess your situation from an un-biased perspective. Conduct a security audit of your home so you can properly address areas that may expose your family to dangerous situations.
After the audit, you may want to consider some of the following security tips:
1. Remove house keys from obvious areas like planters and underneath door mats. Install a keyless entry system where the kids know the code and can access the home without you having to leave the back door open. The alarm codes can easily be changed if compromised.
2. Doors to the garage are usually left unlocked. Intruders who are able to access the garage have a free pass into 3. the house.
3. Exterior Lights need to be maintained and bulbs replaced, especially in areas that can easily hide intruders while they are trying to enter the home unseen.
4. Add gravel to walkways and driveway areas to alert you if someone is walking up to your home.
5. Add Home security signs to the front of your property even if you do not have an alarm company. This may deter an individual that may happen upon your home accidentally and make them think twice about entering.
6. Use a metal bar cut to a length a few inches less than the patio door itself. This will allow a patio door to open only a few inches for airflow but still maintain security. A cut off broom handle will also work.
7. Keep bushes trimmed around windows and doors.
Overgrown plants can provide and excellent cover for an intruder if they are trying to break into a home.
8. If you have a home security system, ensure you have multiple panic alarm buttons throughout the home.
9. Have a designated meeting place defined for your entire family in case of any emergency.
10. Consistently check basement and other external entrances for signs of attempted break ins. Intruders may test these areas without the homeowner even knowing they were there prior to an actual break-in occurring.
In summary, having a plan and security strategy can help you protect your home and family from harm and paying attention to just a few of these home security tips can help you maintain a more safe and secure environment.
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Home Security and Safety
Lock up everything. Make it a habit to lock all doors and windows, even when you're home. Reinforce doors with high-quality deadbolts and use a bar or dowel to secure sliding glass doors.
Improve exterior lighting. Install motion-activated lights or set timers for indoor and outdoor lights to give the impression that someone is home.
Manage landscaping. Trim shrubs and trees near doors and windows to eliminate potential hiding spots for intruders.
Conceal valuables. Keep expensive electronics, jewelry, and other valuables out of sight from windows and doors. Use curtains or blinds to block the view inside.
Beware of social media. Do not post vacation details until you have returned. A publicly broadcasted empty home is an invitation for burglary.
Secure your garage. Always close and lock garage doors and windows. Never leave your garage door opener in your car, as thieves can use it to access your home.
Use smart home technology. Security cameras, video doorbells, and remotely controlled smart locks can enhance your home's protection and allow for real-time monitoring.
Stay vigilant with visitors. Before opening the door, identify who is there using a peephole or video doorbell. Ask for official identification from utility workers or repair people.
Online security best practices
Use strong and unique passwords. Do not reuse passwords across multiple sites. A password manager can help you store complex passwords securely.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone.
Be wary of phishing attempts. Always pause and think before clicking links or opening attachments in suspicious emails or messages. Phishing attacks can disguise themselves as legitimate requests for information.
Keep software and devices updated. Regular software updates, including for operating systems and apps, contain critical security patches that fix vulnerabilities.
Use caution with public Wi-Fi. Avoid conducting sensitive activities like online banking while on public networks. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your traffic.
Back up critical data. Regularly back up your important files to an external drive or encrypted cloud service to prevent data loss from cyberattacks or hardware failure.
Community safety
Participate in a Neighborhood Watch. Work with neighbors to monitor and report suspicious activities in your area. This fosters a sense of collective responsibility and communication.
Get to know your neighbors. Building good relationships with those around you creates a support network where you can look out for one another's homes and families.
Organize clean-ups. Community clean-up events can reduce antisocial behavior and make your neighborhood feel safer and more well-maintained.
Support local businesses. Thriving local commerce can contribute to a stronger, safer community by increasing foot traffic and community interaction.
