Need some help planning out the details of your home security system? Use this home security checklist to ensure you’ve considered all the important things that will keep you safe and secure in your own home. This comprehensive home safety list will help you plan out what kinds of security devices and ideas are best suited to your personal needs, how they should be installed, where they should be placed, and what other safety factors to consider as well.
Surveillance Cameras
Having a video surveillance system is one of your best home security investments, which most home security systems come with. You can buy a home security camera that’s unobtrusive, looks nice and will keep your home safe. These are particularly useful if your home lacks natural lighting or has dark hallways; better visibility means better protection against criminals. If you want to go all out, look into purchasing cameras with night vision so they can take advantage of low-light situations too.
Window Locks
If you have second-story windows in your home, be sure to lock them. If a burglar comes through one of these, you don’t want him/her simply pushing up against it and coming into your home. Also make sure any screens are put away when not in use. An easy way for someone to enter your home is by peeling back a screen and opening your window from inside. Replace broken locks: If you notice locks on doors or windows aren’t working, replace them as soon as possible. It will help deter break-ins and possibly keep you safe if an intruder does come into your home when you aren’t there.
Secure Doors
Install deadbolts on your home’s exterior doors and/or sliding glass doors. Make sure all your windows have sturdy locks installed as well. Consider installing a door or window sensor that will alert you of any activity inside or outside your home. Be sure to keep valuables such as keys, jewelry, and electronic devices in a safe place so that they are not easily accessible by thieves. If you choose to get a dog, make sure it is well-trained, can be kept indoors (or out of sight), and will act defensively if an intruder approaches. Hire a professional alarm company that has been recommended by people you trust.
Burglar Alarms
A burglar alarm that is monitored by a central station is much more effective than an alarm that doesn’t have monitoring. The reason for this is simple: When someone attempts to break into your home, it’s too late when you realize what’s happening; having a professional monitoring company means that an operator will call you if there’s any sign of an intruder. It’s easier and cheaper than you might think! You can also monitor your home from anywhere via mobile app or computer (both are free). If you opt for a system with cellular connection, you won’t even need phone service at your house—the alarm connects directly to your mobile device over cell networks.
Keyless Home Entry Systems
If you want to keep your home safe and secure, one of the most important components of a home security system is a keyless entry system. This eliminates keys as a way into your home and provides an extra layer of protection against unwanted guests or intruders who may have copied your keys. Most keyless entry systems can be accessed via smartphone, so if you’re on vacation you can still check up on your house, and with some systems it’s possible to set access codes for friends or family members. For added safety, add motion sensors that alert you when something has entered a room in your house while you’re away.
Beware of Lighted Windows
Burglars typically avoid homes that have dark, covered windows. Make sure your blinds and curtains are drawn tightly, especially if you have a ground-floor bedroom. If a burglar can’t see into your home, they’re less likely to target it in favor of homes that are easier targets.
Use Outdoor Motion Sensors
Outdoor motion sensors are a great way to extend security coverage beyond your doors and windows. Motion detectors should be placed approximately 10 feet off of ground level, in areas where they can easily detect a moving person and provide ample time for you or your family members to react. If you don’t want an outdoor sensor going off in reaction to squirrels or neighborhood pets, you can always adjust its range so that it only triggers when humans enter your home. If a pet should ever get into your home via an open door or window, however, indoor motion sensors may prove more useful—they will sound an alarm if anyone (or anything) gets too close.
Identify Vulnerable Windows and Doors
A home security checklist is one of many ways you can secure your home. Make sure you identify vulnerable windows and doors and create appropriate barriers. This may require adding additional locks or reinforcing existing ones, depending on where entry points are located. If an intruder enters through a window or door that has been left open, they will have easy access to other parts of your home. You’ll need to invest in weather-resistant covers for all your windows during cold winter months as well as using curtains or blinds that make it more difficult for intruders to peer inside.
Carry Your Phone With You At All Times
As a home security checklist, one of your first and most important tasks is always having your phone with you when you’re home. It’s true that you don’t want to be glued to your phone—life still happens whether or not you respond right away. But if anything out of the ordinary happens (like hearing something strange), it’s easier and faster to call 100 or another emergency number while on your way out of a room rather than trying to find it later. Don’t worry, they’ll be able to locate you by GPS—it isn’t a big deal. And even if it’s not an emergency, it never hurts to have people know where you are and that everything is okay!
Never Leave Your Door Unlocked When Leaving The House
First and foremost, it’s important that you lock your door as soon as you leave home. Leaving your door unlocked is like leaving an open invitation for anyone who wants to enter. For added security, have a friend or neighbor watch your house when you’re away. If you can’t rely on someone close by, consider installing a surveillance camera outside of your home.
