Do you want to buy a security system for your home? Lots of people do so without taking the time to determine whether or not one is really necessary. There are small things you can do to stay safe, like locking doors, that can really protect you.

Buy a safe to keep all of your valuables in one place at home. This ensures during a break in that the most important things are not stolen. Hide your safe in a hard to find place like the basement or attic.

Hide your spare key in a place where no one would think to look for it. It is very common for homeowners to hide them under a mat or above the framing of their door, and intruders know this. Try to find somewhere less obvious.

When you set out to purchase home security equipment, remember to comparison shop. Prices vary greatly in regards to the same protection for each company. Before choosing which company to go with, ask for quotes from a minimum of three companies.

Get roofing, flooring and ceilings that are fire resistant. This give your home an extra protection layer. Lowering or eliminating the risk of a fire is an extremely important home security strategy because a fire can cause extreme destruction very quickly.

You should mute your land line phone if you are going on a vacation. When burglars hear phones ringing for an extended period of time in a home, they know that there is no one there to answer.

If you have a lot of unfamiliar people on you social networking accounts, avoid letting everyone know you will be going on vacation. Although it’s fun to talk about, posting it online makes it more possible for criminals to find out when you’re gone.

It will not benefit you to be shy. Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Keep your eye on their houses, and ask for help to keep yours safe too. Listen for gossip too. You never know what sort of security issues you might become privy to.

Solicit word of mouth recommendations from friends, colleagues and family members to find a great home security company or system. Most will be willing to share their likes, loves and loathes, especially as they realize how important it is to you. By asking around, you will gain information about the pros and cons of a variety of options.

You need to go with your gut instinct when it comes to negotiating and dealing with a home security installation company. If you don’t feel comfortable with the technician, don’t allow them access to your home. Never hesitate to has for a new technician or even go with a different company altogether. The system and the company should put your mind at ease.

Police Department

Keep valuables out of sight of windows. Large windows at the home’s front can be beautiful, but it can make it easier for criminals to see inside. You should cover any windows that are facing the street so your valuables will be safe.

Talk to the police department in your area to see what safety programs they have. They may offer things such as home inspections, engraving tool loans, and other guidance about securing your house. Your police department will be able to help you find out what is available in your town.

You should change all the locks if you just bought or rented a new home. While the person that previously had the home may seem okay, you don’t know who they actually are. There are other people who have lived in the home as well.

Store your car in the garage if you have it. Keeping your car inside will deter thieves from stealing or vandalizing it. This can also keep people from knowing your schedule.

Make sure to have flashlights with fresh batteries in all rooms within your house in the event of a power outage. If the lights go out, they will ensure everyone stays safe. Teach your children how to properly use flashlights.

Even if you have a great security system, it must be checked annually. A security professional should visit to help with the testing process. Many factors cause issues with security systems like nature and wild animals. You may not know there’s an issue if you can’t see it.

Anytime a security installer comes to the house, make sure they display proper identification. Thieves often pose as security company representatives in order to enter homes and look for valuables. Intruders could disguise themselves as home security representatives to inspect your current security system. Be very careful with who you let into your home.

Do not hide your spare key under your doormat or in a nearby planter. While it can help you if you’re locked out, you could be letting intruders inside your home. Thieves aren’t stupid and also know common hiding spots. Rather, give your spare key to a neighbor or friend that you trust.

Always go over the small print on contracts offered by your home security company. There could be fees for terminating the contract early or acquiring additional equipment down the road. These are costs you’ll want to avoid.

When moving into a house, ensure that each lock has been replaced. While the person that previously had the home may seem okay, you don’t know who they actually are. Bear in mind that other people may have lived in the home before the previous owner.

Look online for a reputable home security business. Review the websites of several companies and play close attention to the types of services offered and the customer reviews. You’ll find it easy to narrow your choice down to three top contenders; your next step is to arrange to meet each of them to discuss your specific security needs.

Even the wires inside your home are worth something. Lots of people don’t know this until their wires are stolen. It does not take much time to strip off the expensive copper wires from the exterior of your house. Hide the wiring and make it harder to access to prevent this from happening.

Inquire with your home security service as to how long they’ve been in business. Find a home security company that has a good reputation and many years of experience to get excellent service. 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.

If your home isn’t new, replace the locks. Although the previous owner should not have a key, there is no way for you to know this. This will help safeguard that there is no one else with your key.

If you get home and see the door is slightly open, don’t go inside by yourself to investigate. The thief may remain inside. Get on the phone to the authorities immediately.

Before allowing someone into your house, be sure to carefully check their references. A background check is also a good idea, so that you know what their criminal history looks like. It is impossible to know if the newly hired maid or one time repairman might be a crook unless you check them out. Providing them with your key might be the biggest mistake you’ve ever made.

Wireless alarm systems are a great investment. While a wired system is more affordable, it also requires more extreme modifications of your home’s existing wiring. This could be a potential problem in the event that your power goes out. A wireless system is easy to install and to maintain. Besides, you will still be able to count on your wireless system in case of a power outage.

Before signing up for home security, find out how long they’ve been in business. Companies with a long history can give you the best service for many years. Whenever you know you aren’t doing business with a fly-by-night company, you will be more assured your home is protected.

Could burglars see inside your garage? Make sure that they can’t! Use frosting to cover the garage window, so people cannot peer inside. Also keep your garage door closed whenever possible, especially if you will be stepping away from it for an extended period of time.

Always keep your home’s exterior well lit. It will be easier for intruders to keep an eye on you and approach your home if they can hide in the dark. Add lights to any areas you believe are potential entry points for burglars. Be sure to consider your front and back porch, garage, ground floor windows and any basement entryway.

Can someone standing in the middle of the street see clearly your house numbers? During an emergency crisis, smaller numbers prevent emergency personnel from finding your home quickly. Fortunately, the solution to this is quick, easy and rather cheap once you are aware of the need.

If you’re planning to be out of your home for a period of time, have a neighbor remove any fliers placed on your door. Sometimes burglars leave fliers in an attempt to see if anyone is home to remove them. A flier that hangs around for days on end lets burglars know that there’s no one in the home.

Ask about different contract lengths that your home security company may offer. There are likely pros and cons to each. A longer contract might give you a lower monthly bill, but you could be stuck with those monthly costs if you sell your home or decide to discontinue services. With a shorter contract, you will have a greater level of flexibility. The downside is you will also have larger monthly bills.

You need to get a good home surveillance system. This will allow you to see who is around your house. Cameras that can be clearly seen have a powerful deterrent effect, while concealed cameras are difficult or impossible for intruders to disable. Nowadays, you can track your surveillance on your own cell phone.

Inquire into both purchase and lease options for your security system. It might cost more at first when buying the equipment, but you don’t have the extra cost each month. Leasing is often less expensive, but it may involve contracts and higher monthly fees. Think about both options before making a decision.

A home alarm system could be your best option. But, perhaps all you need to do is make some changes in your home. Check out all your choices to know which ones are right for you.

Using a timer is a great way to make it seem as if you are home when you are on vacation. This helps the lights stay on and continue to switch even when you’re away from your home.