If you don't have a home security system, all you have to do is take one look at the headlines in your local newspaper to know you need one. In this day and age a home security system can protect your hard-earned valuables and your life. Don't leave yourself vulnerable; read the following article on home security and consider investing in a good system soon.

Have sensors installed on all of your windows. This allows you to leave windows open when you are not home, as well as when you are sleeping, without having to worry about an intruder being able to sneak in. They are very inexpensive and can be found at your local department or hardware store.

Consider hiding a spare key on your dog. If you have dogs who have free access to the outdoors, try taping a key securely to the inside of one of their collars. This will make your key accessible should you lock yourself out, while keeping your home safe. If you have multiple dogs, choose the dog who is least friendly with strangers.



You should make sure that you have a good lock on any doors to the outside. Deadbolts can really provide that extra home security that you need. Deadbolts can not be jimmied open as easily as a standard knob lock. A door that is not secure is an open invitation for trouble.

Install timers on your indoor lights. If you are planning on being away from home after dark, timers can make your home look occupied. This is especially useful if you are planning a vacation or other extended stay away from home. Make sure the timer is set differently in each room, as all the lights turning on at once does not look natural.

If your front door does not have a peephole, it is wise to have one installed. Peepholes allow you to see who's at your front door before you open it. Some home owners choose to have two peepholes installed to allow for difference in height of those that live in the home.

As silly as it may seem, stop having newspapers delivered if you are going on vacation. Intruders will see all of the papers piling up and will realize that no one is home, making it more likely for them to break in. Call the delivery company and tell them when you will come back and when you want them to start delivering again.

Ensure that valuables are stored in a hidden area that isn't visible from outside your home. You might enjoy large windows so you can see out, but just remember that makes it easier for those burglars to see inside your home as well. If your windows face a street, be sure they're always covered and have your valuables safe.

A big problem with home security is having overgrown landscaping. Overgrown landscaping gives crooks shelter when breaking into your home. All of your windows and doors should be able to be seen from the streets without having bushes covering them. Also within the yard, do not allow your landscaping to grow to a point where thieves can hide.

If simply click the up coming web site are unsure whether you should purchase a hard-wired or wireless home security system, call a local home security company for advice. It is important to consider the pros and cons of both systems before making a decision. It will take a representative approximately an hour to evaluate your home before giving an opinion.

It can be especially helpful if you are an elderly person who remains living in your home to have a home security system installed. This will not only alert the authorities to any fires and intruders, but it gives you a direct link to help if needed, allowing you to keep your independence.

Dogs are excellent security systems. Even if they are small, just the noise of a barking dog is enough to make a criminal move on to the next house. http://billingsgazette.com/lifestyles/home-and-gar...6d-5388-a4a1-52bd9988082c.html does not have to be a huge watchdog because the barking draws attention to what is going on and a crook wants to remain unnoticed.

Purchase motion sensor lighting for the next generation in home security. Many providers can supply this, and it switches exterior lights on whenever anyone comes near a point of entry. This provides additional protection for you when you come home after dark, and can also prevent a burglary.

Don't fit your exterior doors with locks of the spring latch variety. These are very easy to pick by simply using a credit card. Burglars just slip a card between the latch and the door, causing the lock mechanism to open. IF spring latch locks are already in place, add a deadbolt for that extra layer of security.


When you purchase a new home, always make sure that you change the locks on the door. You do not know how many people have the key to your new house. By changing the locks you can control who has access to your house. Also, make sure you change the locks if you lose your house key.

When standing in the street, can you see your house numbers? In an emergency situation, first responders won't be able to locate your house quickly if the numbers are hidden or are too small to see clearly. Fortunately, this is something that can be corrected quickly and cheaply.

If your home does not have one, consider installing a security alarm system in your home. In addition to the equipment, you will get signage for displaying outside your home. When a potential thief sees the signage, it will make him think twice before targeting your home for his next job.

Don't put your key in an obvious hiding place. An easily moved object close to the door is the first place a burglar will look. Doormats are generally the first spot a person would look. The best idea is just to ask a friend or neighbor to hang on to a key for you. Otherwise, you should be more creative when it comes to hiding your key.

Look for captive keylocks when picking out a new deadbolt. Deadbolts have thumb latches that prevent people from reaching around them to open it. When you are at home, leave the key in the lock so that you can get out in case of a fire.

Instead of assuming that the only way to make your home safer is by installing an expensive home security system, educate yourself. This article should have provided you with some ideas on the subject. Remember these tips in order to start feel more secure and safe when you're in the home.