Improve your home security
Have you taken the basic precautions to protect your home?
Whether you are on holiday, at work, or asleep in bed, when looking at improving the security of your property, it is important to understand and consider what security you require and how it can help deter thieves.
You should begin by reviewing the exterior of your home to look for any potential weak points; in the same way an opportunist burglar would, and make sure there are no easy routes into your home.
To ensure your home is as safe as possible, be sure to check out the following cost-effective security solutions.
CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television)
CCTV cameras are the perfect addition for security-conscious home owners. Burglars will often evaluate the security of a house before attempting to enter. A lot of homes and businesses use CCTV and here's why:
- Act as a deterrent to potential burglars
- Capture vital evidence in the event of a crime
- Select from wired or wireless options
- Can help reduce home insurance premiums
- Options available for a range of budgets
Security Lighting
Outdoor security lighting is a popular method for a lot of homes and businesses to help deter criminals from entering your property. They have many benefits to security lights; here are just a few:
- Effective low-cost deterrent
- Helps provide clear visibility of any potential intruders
- PIR (Passive Infrared) lights detect movement and turn on when someone is on your property
- Outdoor lighting with a camera can give you extra peace of mind
Alarms and Security Systems
A well maintained alarm system is key to protecting your home. When installing a security system it is important that it's visible and fitted to the front of your property to send a clear message. Here's what to keep in mind when looking for alarm systems:
- Wireless systems are often tidier and easier to install than wired systems
- Sensors can be easily added to a wireless alarm system
- Wired systems tend to be cheaper, compared to wireless versions
- Sensors will activate if vibration or forced entry is detected
- More advanced systems use PIR sensors to detect body heat and will sound if movement is detected
Secure Outdoor Buildings
Thieves will look for any vulnerability in a property and that includes sheds and outdoor buildings that may contain expensive items such as tools and equipment.
- Padlocks are a simple, cost-effective way of securing sheds and outbuildings
- Security cables and chains offer up weather-resistant, tough and durable options
- Choose from key or combination locks
…And don't Forget these simple security tips
To prevent a home invasion there are simple measures you can take to make it difficult for anyone looking to enter your home…
- Ensure all doors are locked and windows are closed when you are not home – contrary to popular belief, break-ins are most common between the hours 10am-3pm.
- Move keys away from doors and windows. Keep out of sight and in a safe place.
- Hide expensive items from view and keep valuables in a safe place.
- If you're away for a long period of time, use a timer to turn your lights on and off at varying intervals to make it look like someone is home.
- Consider placing gravel around your property as it is very loud when walked upon.
