You might know someone who has had their home robbed in the past. Home break-ins are increasing, so people should be extra vigilant about protecting their home. Anyone can be a target. Read this article to get ideas on securing your home.

Why not give your trusted dog the job of holding onto your spare key? In order to make this work, your dog either needs to stay outside or have access to a pet door. You can attach a copy of your key to the dog’s collar, so when you need that spare, you’ve got one handy!

Spare Key

Talk to people you know about their security systems. Most will be willing to share their likes, loves and loathes, especially as they realize how important it is to you. Ask around so that you can have the advice that you need to make a good choice.

You can hide your spare key on your dog. This is a great idea if your dog is outside all the time, or they can get out through a doggy door. You can purchase a special collar that will hold your spare key, so when you forget your keys your dog can let you in.

You never want to open up a door to a stranger without proper identification. People try many ways to convince others to open up their doors so that they can commit burglary or worse. Make it mandatory that doors in your home are only opened for expected visitors.

Providing a key to the person cleaning your home can be acceptable, but you must be sure they are honest and worthy of your confidence. If you plan to give them a key so they can clean in your home while you are away, ensure they are reputable and honest. Make sure you verify all references. If you are using a cleaning firm, make sure it has an excellent Better Business Bureau rating.

Make sure to clear your yard of brush and dead wood in the summertime. These are vulnerable to fires and put your home in danger. Keep these cleared away regularly to maintain your home’s safety and to keep it in good shape.

Do you have a dog that stays in your yard when you’re not at home? You might consider leaving your spare key with your dog. Put it on your dog’s collar, making sure it is hidden. Especially if pets don’t like strangers, this can be a useful way for having easy access to your house.

See what your local police department offers in terms of home protection programs. The police can offer you some great advice, help you engrave valuables and even come check out your home. These programs can make a big difference to the security of your home, and they may just be a phone call away.

Make sure to use caution when deciding if and where to hide an extra key outside of your home. Too many people put their extra key under the mat in front of their door; burglars know to check there. For a better solution, try tucking your spare key into your dog’s collar, provided you have an outside dog.

If you’ve got a garage, boost home security just by using it for only a car instead of storage. Keeping your car in your house will deter intruders from vandalizing or stealing it. Keeping your car out of sight is also a good way to prevent intruders from determining whether or not you are home.

You should talk to your friends and family about advice concerning certain home security companies. Other people are sure to have opinions and experiences to share. Make sure to ask neighbors for advice too.

It doesn’t matter how much money you spent, you should have an annual test. Ask someone from your security company to come over and have a look. There are quite a few things that can negatively impact the effectiveness of home security equipment. For example, adverse weather conditions or pests such as raccoons can cause problems. It’s quite possible for there to be a fault in your system even if you can’t see it.

Don’t be shy. Speak with your neighbors. By knowing the people in your neighborhood, you can rest a little easier knowing that people are looking out for each other. Pay attention to gossip as well. You may find out helpful information about strangers lurking around.

You should not hide your spare key under your mat or inside a plant box. You might think this protects you against being locked out of your home, but it also gives intruders access to your home. Thieves aren’t stupid and also know common hiding spots. Instead, have a trustworthy neighbor hold on to your spare key.

A secure hiding place can be created in a wall. Keep small, valuable items inside the walls of your home. Just access unused switch plates, outlets or phone jacks. Installing a false unused plate is very easy to do if your home doesn’t have one.

Be sure your expensive belongings are not visible from the home’s exterior. Large windows allow you to keep an eye on who is approaching your home, but keep in mind that potential intruders will be tempted if they can see your valuables. Be sure to put curtains on your front-facing windows so people can’t see your valuable belongings.

It is a mistake to assume that break-ins only happen in upscale neighborhoods. Any home which is simple to get into can be a target. If you follow the tips written in this guide, you will surely be able to protect your house from unwanted intruders.

Remove and replace any wood that is not up to par. Rotted wood can be easily removed by thieves. Therefore, replace rotted wood with fresh wood to ensure your home’s safety.