If you are a home owner, then you know just how important it is to keep your humble abode safe. Having your home destroyed or damaged is one of the worst experience you can have. Not only is your home a large investment, there are often precious memories tied to it. Keep your most precious investment safe.

Some home security systems have additional security features besides sounding an alarm to deter a burglar. The majority of systems will give an audible alert when someone enters the house. Parents of children can track their kids this way.

Place the spare key that you make on your dog. This approach is useful if your dog is a large breed that lives outdoor, or if your house has a doggy door. Simply attach a spare key to your dog’s collar (in a secure and non-visible place, of course) so that you’ll be able to retrieve it if you need it.

If you do not know the person at your door, don’t open it. Criminals can be endlessly inventive when it comes to generating a convincing story to force their way into your home. No matter how sympathetic the story, remember that it could all be a put-on. Therefore, only allow people you know and are expecting to enter your home.

Police Department

When looking for a system to secure your home, do comparison shopping. Each company has different rates for their security system. You really owe it to yourself to solicit firm quotes from three different providers before you sit down to pick one.

Consult with your police department to find out about good programs for home protection. The police can offer you some great advice, help you engrave valuables and even come check out your home. Contact the police department to see if they have something similar.

If you’ve got skylights, don’t neglect them when ensuring your home’s security. They look great and provide light, but also are another access point. Be certain to have skylights that incorporate strong, durable hardware.

Switch your locks. Whether you have a roommate who is about to move out, or a relationship that has run its course, it is a good idea change your locks. It is inexpensive, and most locksmiths will be available for next day appointments.

Make sure that your valuables cannot be seen from outside the home. Though it is nice to have big windows to get a great view of the outdoors, it is also easier for burglars to look into your home. If your windows are facing the street, make sure you cover them and protect your valuables.

Even if you only plan to be gone for a very short time, lock your house. Most break-ins and burglaries occur because a door is left open and an intruder just walks in. A thief can steal your most valuable possessions in a short amount of time.

The walls are a perfect hiding place. Keep small, valuable items inside the walls of your home. Just use an unwired electric plug, light switch or phone box. Installing a false unused plate is very easy to do if your home doesn’t have one.

It is important that your alarm system wiring is not exposed anywhere. Many intruders bypass a security system by cutting the wires. Hide them in the walls or bury them underground to keep people from tampering with them. This will make you much safer.

Are you aware that the wires located on the exterior of your house have value? A lot of people don’t realize this fact until a robber steals it from their home. The reason they are valuable is because of their copper. A burglar can easily strip off your wires from the outside of your home very quickly. Hide the wiring and make it harder to access to prevent this from happening.

Place your valuables in cut-outs in your walls. You don’t have to cut out pieces of the wall to do this. There are lots of places around the home that have pre-cut areas that you can use. Unused electrical sockets can be great for hiding expensive jewelry.

Get flashlights with good batteries, and have them in each room in case you lose power. If the lights go out, they will ensure everyone stays safe. Show your children how to use them so everyone in the family is involved.

Unless you’re moving into a brand-new apartment or home, changing the locks should be one of your top priorities. The person who used to live there may still have a key. Find a reliable locksmith who can replace the locks or do it yourself.

Do not choose a home alarm system that monitors only your doors. All of your windows are possible entry points for a thief too. Be certain they are also alarmed and monitored. The safety of your family will be ensured.

Before allowing someone into your house, be sure to carefully check their references. A background check may also be a good idea. You do not know if the people you hire are trustworthy, so do not give them a key to your home.

When you consider a security company, be certain you read the details and fine print of the contract you’re about to sign. There could be fees for terminating the contract early or acquiring additional equipment down the road. It’s best to know about these fees in advance so that you can avoid them when possible.

Don’t leave the packaging from any electronics or expensive purchases sitting on the curb until trash day. Empty boxes might draw the attention of robbers and let everyone know you own new and expensive goods.

Think about safety when designing your home. You should not let plants and shrub block 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. Have your landscape several feet away from your house for better safety.

As stated in this piece, making sure your house is safe need not be tough. All you need are some good ideas in home security. Use the tips you just read to improve your home security. Do everything in your power to make sure your house and your family are safe.

Always check references before letting anyone work on your home. Be sure to perform a background check and look for any criminal history that might be in evidence. You can never be too sure about anyone you hire to enter your home, and giving them access can work against you.