Don’t turn a blind eye to the security of your home. Take stock of the reality of your situation and make an informed decision. However, knowing the right security steps to take is not easy. This article is filled with information and tips you can use to find the ideal home security system.

Be sure your home appears to always be occupied. Keep your radio, TV and lights on timers. This will make it look like someone is home. This is an effective deterrent against burglars.

Put your spare key on your dog. This can be done if your dog can come outside. Place a spare key on the collar, and when you really need a spare, you know where to go!

If you have an attached garage, make sure it is secure. Many people are concerned about people entering their garages to gain access to their homes. Use a C-clamp to secure the door if it’s off track.

Does your canine stay in the yard while you go out? This is where you can put your spare key. The key can be attached to the collar of your dog. This will ensure that burglars cannot see it. This works very well if you have a pet that is not very fond of strangers. You will get the access you need without having to worry about your safety.

Have lights that are motion-sensor installed. These lights will turn on if anyone walks too closely to your home. This lets you know something is moving and also drives off criminals. Just remember and change out the light bulbs whenever necessary.

Setting off an alarm during a burglary is just one of the valuable functions a good security system can perform. Many systems sound an alert whenever people enter the house. Parents riding herd on small children will be thankful for this feature which makes it harder for kids to sneak outside without supervision.

Go with your gut when choosing a home security company to install a system. This goes for the installer, too. If you are unsure, contact the security company to make sure that the installer was actually sent by them. Security is supposed to give you peace of mind after all!

Check around for prices, reputation, and reliability when choosing a home security provider. Prices vary significantly, even for similar levels of protection. Get quotes from several companies before making a decision.

If you buy expensive electronics or appliances, throw the packages away the day that your trash pickup occurs. Having these boxes around will let thieves know the type of items that are inside your home.

Purchase ceiling, flooring and roofing that is fire resistant. This will add an extra protection layer for your house, particularly if you live near power lines or in a dry location. Investing in fire-resistant materials will help you save a lot since a fire can cause extensive damage.

Are you aware of the fact that your home wiring is worth money? A lot of people do not know this until a thief steals them from the house. Copper, found in many wires, can be removed in little time, and is worth quite a bit of money. Be sure to keep your wiring hidden or difficult to reach.

Remove all of the vegetation outside in the hotter months. They are a potential fire hazard during warmer months. Keep your yard clear of debris to keep your house safe.

It is important to always have fresh batteries and flashlights handy around the house. Flashlights are essential since they let you move around in an emergency. If you have kids, teach them how to properly use the flashlights so everyone in the family can help out during a power outage.

Be outgoing. Speak to your neighbors. Keep on eye on their home and ask neighbors to return the favor. Pay attention to gossip as well. You could learn important security information, such as if strangers have been lurking around the neighborhood.

Change the locks on any new place you move into. Even if the tenants turned their keys in, they may have made copies. It’s easy to install locks, so you can just purchase them at the home improvement store and swap them out to be sure you have the only keys.

Skylights need to be secure, too. They look great and provide light, but also are another access point. Be sure that the skylights for your home are durable and reliable.

You can find an excellent home security company with a simple Internet search. Browse through different websites and seek out customer reviews about different services and packages. Once you have selected a few potential home security providers, set appointments to interview them and find out what they have on offer.

Don’t put your extra key under you doormat, in a planter, or in a cleverly disguised false rock. These are the first places criminals will look when they try to enter your home. Thieves aren’t stupid and also know common hiding spots. The wisest course of action is to leave a spare key with a trusted friend or a reliable neighbor.

Ask your home security company about coming to your residence and creating a system that is tailored to your personal needs. The needs and wants of each family and the configuration of each home are quite individual. A custom set-up will make sure you’re as safe as can be.

You want all wires of an installed security system to be hidden. If the wires are exposed, an intruder can bypass the system by cutting its wires. Don’t let this happen; bury or hide the wires. This way, you will be safer.

If you don’t own a paper shredder, it would be a good idea for you to buy one. Your trash contains so much personal information a thief would love to have. Rip your important papers up before throwing them away if you can’t get a shredder.

If you hire a security company, read any fine print. Sometimes, hidden costs can be incurred if you get rid of the service before a certain date. Be aware of these particular fees so you can steer clear of them.

Are the numbers of your home visible from the street? If you need assistance, emergency vehicles may not locate your home in a timely manner if the numbers don’t stand out. There is a cheap and quick fix if you see an issue.

If you want to live with peace of mind, then you know you have to see to the security of your home. There is no denying this truth. Hopefully you now have a better understanding about how to really secure your home.

When you aren’t home, be sure to close your blinds, curtains or shades. When they are open, potential burglars get a free look in. If they spot an item they’re interested in, they will most likely try to enter. Keep them down when you’re asleep, too.