We have all heard horror stories about people’s homes being robbed. This crime is increasing, so you need to make an effort to keep your home secure. No one is immune to robbery; every home is a potential target. This article discusses strategies for increasing your home’s security.

It can be a good idea to only leave one ringer on in your home when you are away. If the phone rings without you there, burglars will suspect that you’re not home, and that can make your home a target for an attack while you’re gone.

When you buy a new home, be sure to have the locks changed. You will want to have a unique combination to stay secure. Contact a locksmith to make sure that only you have access to your home. When you lose your keys, have your locks rekeyed.

Don’t let any person you don’t completely know into your house. While their story may seem legit, that doesn’t mean it is true. There are people that just want to go into your home to see if you’ve got a type of home security system, and if they see that you don’t, they’ll return when you’re not home.

Make sure to clear your yard of brush and dead wood in the summertime. These could catch on fire during the summer, especially if you live in a dry area. Clear yard regularly to maintain your house safe.

Home security systems have different kinds of features that can sound an alarm when someone breaks into your house. Most systems can be set to sound an alert when anyone enters the home. If you have little ones wandering about the house, this makes it easy for you to know if they have come in or gone out.

Regardless of the type of home security system you choose, be sure to have regular inspections and maintenance performed. Ask someone from your security company to come over and have a look. A number of things may cause your alarm system to have problems, including mother nature and wild animals. You might not even discover these problems if they aren’t easily sighted.

Motion Activated

Do not be reluctant to meet your neighbors. It is important to communicate with others who also live in your area. You’ll find that friendly neighbors make for a powerful support network. Keep an eye on their properties and they’ll respond in kind. It does not necessarily pay to steer clear of gossip. You might actually learn a thing or two concerning people that have been hanging around.

Put up motion activated lighting. These lights will come on if someone walks near your house. You will be alerted when there is activity outside, and any potential burglars will be deterred because they do not want to be seen. Make sure you keep fresh light bulbs in your motion activated lights so that they will work correctly.

You can hide certain valuables within your walls. This doesn’t require tearing into your walls, of course. Many places around your house have areas that are already pre-cut. For example, you might remove the cover of an electrical outlet, disconnect the wires, and use the space to hide small valuables.

Install lights that have motion sensors. These lights will come on if someone walks near your house. This will discourage would be thieves and alert you to any movement on your property. However, make sure to put in fresh bulbs every now and then.

If you bought any expensive or large items, don’t throw the boxes out until the day trash is scheduled to be removed. You are alerting thieves that there is something worth stealing inside your home.

If you are entering a house that has already been occupied, you should first change your locks. Although the previous owner should not have a key, there is no way for you to know this. You might even purchase and install your own locks so that you are assured of having the only keys.

Any program to improve the security of your home should begin with complete replacement of your door locks. Maybe you had a roommate move out or have a disgruntled ex-lover, changing the locks is the best way to keep yourself safe. It is inexpensive, and most locksmiths will be available for next day appointments.

Perform landscaping for your home which enhances your home’s safety. Don’t provide burglars with cover by planting big shrubs in front of your doors and windows. If windows and doors can be easily seen from all areas, then burglars cannot hide as well, which will hinder their plans. Keep this in mind as you design.

Ask about the history of any home security company you are considering. It doesn’t take long for a quality company to prove itself in the security business, and you should look for a track record of satisfied customers and successful work. You may not feel as safe if you opt to go with a company that has not been in business for long or that does not have a stable history.

Your risks of being the target of home intruders really doesn’t depend on the area in which you live. There are some who believe country folk are more at risk because neighbors are not nearby. Still, there are those who are of the opinion that rural properties are less of a temptation to burglars.

Be sure to get a home security service that will inspect your home and tailor a home security system just for you. Every family is different, and so your security needs will be unique. If there is a company that can come up with a customized plan, you will get what you really need.

Before looking at home security systems, consider your personal security risks and safety needs. Generic systems aren’t for everyone. Some neighborhoods may do better with self-defense classes or having a dog, while others may require the best home security technology you can get. Think about your risk factor when making a decision.

It is important that you do not put expensive valuables in plain sight. Although large windows in your home can provide your home with a lot of light, they can also provide burglars with an excellent view of the inside of your home. Keep your windows covered and your belongings private.

Don’t think only expensive houses get robbed. If your home looks vulnerable, it’s a target. If you use these tips to better your security measures, you can better protect your family and home from burglars.