Don’t make assumptions about who does or who doesn’t know about the expensive items in your home. Improve the security of your home to prevent burglary. Continue reading to learn excellent strategies on keeping your home safe.

Your home should always look like it is occupied. You could purchase timers and have your TVs, lights, radios and other types of electronics to go on at various times. This way it will always look as if someone is home, even when you are away. This is an effective deterrent against burglars.

Look for ways to make your home seem occupied. You could purchase timers which make lights and TV’s, as well as other devices, power on or off at varying intervals. This way it will always look as if someone is home, even when you are away. This is a simple way to give people up to no good think that you are home.

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. Attach the spare key to your dog’s collar. By doing this, you have a handy spare key whenever you need it.

Hide your spare key in a place where no one would think to look for it. Too many people put their extra key under the mat in front of their door; burglars know to check there. You could hide the key with your dog on the collar.

Consider using your dog as a place to store your spare key. Of course, your dog has to be an outdoor dog (or you at least need to have a doggy door) for this to work. 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.

The materials of your home should be fire resistant. This adds more protection to a house, especially if you’re in a dry area with some power lines. Fire prevention should be taken seriously because it can stop a major disaster from happening.

Never allow any strangers into your home. Be wary of those who come to your door selling products, asking for help, or telling sob stories. Some people may simply be trying to determine whether or not you have a home security installed; if you don’t, they may plan to return later if you are away from your home.

Change the locks after buying a new house. It’s important to know everyone who has a key to your home. Speak with a locksmith to get a unique lock for your home. In addition, replace your locks if your keys ever get lost.

Security System

You need to have your security system checked once a year. The security company should have a specialist come to look at it. There are any number of problems that can cause malfunctions in your security system, from weather damage to animal activity. Sometimes, you may need a professional to locate the problem.

Home security systems aren’t just about sounding alarms. Most of them can be programmed to alert you to anyone entering your home. This is great for parents that have small children so that they know when their kids open or close doors.

When it comes to securing your home, start by changing your locks. As time passes, keys end up getting into the wrong hands. It doesn’t cost much and they can usually show up within a day.

Don’t forget to secure your skylights too. Skylights are great for making a home brighter, but they can make it easier for burglars to access the house. Be certain that skylights in your home can be locked securely.

Don’t let strangers enter your house. It is essential you do not do this, even if the stranger gives you a convincing story or states they need your assistance. This person might just be casing the joint to see if there is home security equipment.

Walls are great for hiding things. If you own smaller things that need protection, think about keeping them hidden in the walls. Use an old switch plate, outlet or phone jack. If you haven’t got any plates that are unused, simply install a false switch plate.

Make sure the wires of your home security system are completely hidden. Exposed wires make it easy for an intruder to cut them and disable the alarm. Make sure the wires are installed inside the walls of your home. Keep yourself safe.

See what your local police department offers in terms of home protection programs. Home inspections or engraving identifiers can help protect you. Talk with local police to see if they offer these programs.

Unless you’re moving into a brand-new apartment or home, changing the locks should be one of your top priorities. Even though the previous tenant may have turned in their key, you never know if they have a copy. You can also put the locks on yourself so you can be sure no one else has a key.

If you plan to go away and have asked someone to get the mail, see if they will also remove fliers that may have been left at the door. It isn’t uncommon for burglars to put up fliers to see whether or not they’re removed. If the flier is not removed, they will know you are not home.

Have lights that sense motion. When a person approaches your home, the lights will blaze. You will receive advance warning of any potential issues, and a would-be intruder will probably be scared off. Just remember to change out the bulbs every so often so the lights remain in working order.

The best method to maintain a thief from going into the garage is making sure nobody can see inside. Use frosted, adhesive backed plastic to cover the windows. You can purchase this at a home improvement store. Avoid leaving the door open for extended periods of time.

Be sure not to use your birthday as the password on your door lock’s numeric key pad. Your date of birth can be obtained through Facebook or your mail. Use a number you can remember through some trick of memory known only to you, making it difficult for someone else to figure it out.

Meet with representatives from the security company you are considering to determine if they are trustworthy. If the installers give you the heebie-jeebies, it’s not a good sign. Ask for someone else to come out or switch companies. You want the system to make you feel like you’re more comfortable.

Think about getting a hard-wired system if you have concerns about maintenance issues. Wireless set-ups need battery changes all the time. Neglecting this maintenance can cause faults in your security system and leave you improperly protected. Also, frequent battery replacements can be costly.

Don’t assume you’ll never be the victim of a crime; be proactive about securing your home. There’s no need to live in fear, but addressing some basic security concerns is always the prudent course of action. Remember the tips in this article for some great ways on improving your home’s security, so you can protect yourself and your family.

No matter how soon you plan to return home, you should lock your doors. You may be surprised to know that many burglars simply turn the doorknob and walk right in. A thief can steal lots of stuff in a little amount of time.