What value do you place on home security? Do you think that you cannot afford home security? Are you longing for less expensive options? Well, now there are, and they’re right under your nose. In this article, we will review some of these options.

Before selecting a security firm, ask for recommendations. There are likely people you know that have had either good or bad experiences with these companies. Ask around to get lots of advice for making a better choice.

Look at the prices for all of the security systems that you are interested in. Every company offers different pricing. Obtain quotes from a minimum of three home security companies before making a final decision.

Remove all of the vegetation outside in the hotter months. When summer heats up, such debris can catch fire. Clear up your yard so it looks good and is safe.

Talk to people you know about their security systems. Knowledge of first-hand experiences can be very helpful to you when it comes to making this important decision. By asking around, you will gain information about the pros and cons of a variety of options.

It’s a good idea to have motion sensor lights installed. This type of light will come on when they detect motion within a certain distance of your home. You will be alerted to movement, but most importantly, it will deter burglars or at least make you aware of their presence. Remember to keep working bulbs in them at all times.

Secure your garage. Intruders could easily break into your garage and access your home. If the garage door lifts via a track, you can use a C-clamp to stop your door from opening at the hands of intruders.

You need to change our locks as your first step to ensuring your safety. As time passes, keys end up getting into the wrong hands. Changing the locks can typically be done very cheaply and quickly.

Home protection program details may be available at your police station. There are many that offer programs that include items, such as home inspection, how to use engraving tools to mark code numbers to identify valuables if yours are stolen, and protective measures advice. Call the local police department and inquire as to what programs they offer.

Walls are a great hiding spot for your valuables. Small valuables fit nicely inside walls. You can use phone jacks or electric outlets as hiding spots. If you use all of them, you can always have fake ones installed.

Install lights that use a motion-sensor. Lights like these will automatically turn on whenever someone is near them. Not only will they notify you of movement, they will also deter potential burglars, as thieves want to remain as inconspicuous as possible. But keep in mind that the bulbs to the security light should be routinely changed to ensure that the deterrent system functions properly.

Avoid leaving spare keys outside of your home. These are the first places criminals will look when they try to enter your home. Burglars are well aware of such hiding places. Ask a friend, neighbor or relative to keep your extra keys for you.

An extremely important tactic for keeping your home safe is changing out the locks. Maybe you’ve had a roommate leave or a bitter ex-lover, so changing the locks can keep you safer. This is something that you can do yourself and does not cost much money at all.

Make certain no one can see your valuable belongings through windows and doors. Large windows at the home’s front can be beautiful, but it can make it easier for criminals to see inside. If you have windows that face the street, always keep them covered and keep your valuables safe.

You need to go with your gut instinct when it comes to negotiating and dealing with a home security installation company. If the installers make you feel uncomfortable, heed your feelings. It’s your home, and you are free to hire any company you like. You want the system to make you feel like you’re more comfortable.

Always check references before letting anyone work on your home. Don’t be afraid of conducting background checks to determine if they have a criminal history. Avoid giving keys out to contractors, maids and repairmen.

Lock up your house every time you leave. It may shock you to know this, but a lot of intruders get inside homes through open doors. It does not take long for thieves to steal a lot from your home.

You want to know what is included in a contract if you’re signing up with a security company. There might be hidden costs or other things you should know about. You should avoid such expenses if you can, so make yourself aware.

Purchase an alarm system that has a few “bells and whistles;” you don’t just need protection for your doors. Burglars can gain entry through your windows as well. Make sure the alarm is attached to all of them, and that monitoring is offered for all possible entry points. This will help to keep your family safe.

A good way to scare off intruders is to keep your house lit at nighttime. These crooks do not wish to be noticed or seen. A well-lit home will make it hard for intruders to hide and take your valuables without being detected. Thus, you should always keep lights on at nighttime.

Hide the wires of your home security system. A burglar can easily cut and disconnect wires that are left visible. This is why it is so important to make sure all your wires are well hidden. This will help to deter intruders that are looking to quickly disable your alarm system.

Think about safety when designing your home. There should be no plants or greenery in front of doors or windows. This way, no one can hide there if they are attempting to break into your house. Have your landscape several feet away from your house for better safety.

Carefully check the references of everyone before allowing them to enter your home. Perform a background check to learn about their criminal history, too. Avoid giving keys out to contractors, maids and repairmen.

Ask your security provider about their history in the business. Any business with multiple years of history has a proven record in being reliable. You get better peace of mind if you deal with someone you know you can trust for the long haul.

It all boils down to what is affordable. If you cannot afford expensive systems, you can try the inexpensive methods to increase your home’s safety. This article had many tips that you can use to boost home security. They may be the best defense you could use and could also be the best thing you could buy.

A paper shredder can be a good security investment. Your trash contains so much personal information a thief would love to have. If you don’t want a shredder, rip the papers up manually.