Our home is our comfort zone, a place where you feel secure and protected. Even the most cautious homeowners can make home security oversights that leave their home vulnerable. Here are 15 common home security oversights to rectify, to fortify your home and bring you peace of mind.
Keeping the same lock code
From alarms to smart locks, using the same codes repeatedly makes you an easy target. Switch up your passwords regularly, ditching birthday combos and address numbers for something more complex. Changing passwords every three months is good.
Being vocal about vacation on social media
Social media excitement about your getaway can be a burglar’s delight. Keep those vacation pics under wraps until you are back – better yet, avoid oversharing your life online. You can read about how oversharing on social media has led to dangerous consequences.
Keeping windows and doors unlocked
Leaving doors and windows unlocked is like rolling out the red carpet for intruders. Make locking up a daily habit – it’s a simple yet powerful way to deter home break-ins. Make it a habit to check all doors and windows before going to sleep.
Keeping equipment outdoor
Is keeping that ladder by the garage really necessary? It’s a second story access point waiting to be taken advantage of by a burglar. Secure tools and other outdoor equipment after use to remove easy climbing aids.
Keeping garage unlocked
Don’t let your garage become a gateway for intruders. Keep the entry point locked, hide the automatic opener, and consider a smart garage door system to deter anyone considering an easy break-in. Do not share the garage access passcode with anyone.
Keeping yard in darkness
Darkness is a burglar’s friend. Invest in motion sensor lights, pathway lighting, and well-lit entryways to make it harder for intruders to lurk unseen.
Ignored landscaping
While lush landscaping can be beautiful, it can also provide a hiding spot for intruders. Trim bushes and trees around your home to maintain clear sightlines and eliminate lurking spots.
Unarming the alarm system
Having a home security system is pointless if you don’t use it! Arming your alarm before leaving, even for short trips, is essential. An unarmed system is a useless tool against a break-in.
Unlocked glass doors
Glass doors look amazing! Sliding glass doors are notorious for being easy to jimmy open. Invest in reinforcement bars or a secondary home security lock to add an extra layer of security.
Ignoring security screening
Anyone you allow into your home, from a delivery person to a handyman, could be a potential security risk. Always ask for identification, check references, and consider home security cameras to monitor entry points.
Using doormat to hide key/s
Hiding a spare key under the doormat is a tactic as old as time, and transparent to burglars. Find a more creative, off-site hiding spot or consider a keyless entry system.
Not installing home security cameras
Security cameras are a powerful deterrent, despite some privacy concerns. Visible cameras can scare off burglars and provide crucial evidence if a break-in occurs.
Not pulling the curtains
Expensive electronics, jewelry, or cash left in plain view are practically an invitation for a thief. Use curtains or blinds to keep valuables out of sight from prying eyes.
Disarmed home security systems
Disabling your security system, even for convenience, puts your home at risk. Treat your alarm like a vital part of your routine – don’t ignore or bypass it.
Ignoring smart home security
Modern smart home technology offers security upgrades like video doorbells and remote access. Embrace the advancements and integrate your home security systems for a truly connected and protected space.
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