Tips For Improving Home Safety

The home should be a place where one feels safe and comfortable. However, in many areas the incidence of crimes against victims in their own homes is on the rise. The following tips can help homeowners to ensure their home remains a safe place for the family.

Install adequate lighting around the property. Most individuals planning to break into a home will avoid locations that are well lit in order to decrease the chances of being caught. If the owner does not want the property illuminated at all times, installing lights with motion sensors can provide enough light to frighten off the intended criminal.

Add an alarm system. The system can automatically call for help if the home is invaded. In addition to making one's residence safer from intruders, the system can call for help in the event of a fire. Many insurance companies offer a discount to homeowners with an alarm.

Install higher quality locks. Talk with a locksmith about the best quality locks available. Many homes have the same locks that were installed when built. Often these contractor grade devices are of poor quality. In addition, if the current occupant is not the first person to live in the home, numerous people could have keys provided by previous tenants.

Keep vehicles that are parked outdoors locked. An unlocked vehicle can allow a prowler a place to hide and attack unsuspecting home occupants. Vehicles with a remote key fob offer a quick and easy way to improve one's safety.

Make sure all windows are locked. If a window must be left open for ventilation, check at the hardware store for locks that allow partial opening. Never leave the opening large enough for a person to enter the home. Be sure to check basement windows to ensure they are secure.

Keep shrubs and trees trimmed to prevent hiding places for criminals. Adding light does little good if the shrubs provide enough shadows where a person can hide. Consider species such as roses and holly bushes for around windows to provide a natural deterrent.

With garage door repair Santa Monica residents ensure the largest opening to their home is operating correctly. Doors that do not close properly can make the residence an easy target. An automatic opener allows the occupant to enter the home without exiting his or her vehicle. Make sure the installer changes the code for the opener so that it cannot be activated with a remote an intruder picks up off the shelf.