You likely know someone who has been the victim of a home burglary. There has been an increase in home invasions, making home security even more important than it ever has been. A burglary can happen in any neighborhood. This article discusses strategies for increasing your home’s security.

Providing a key to the person cleaning your home can be acceptable, but you must be sure they are honest and worthy of your confidence. If they will be there over an hour and you are thinking of giving them your home key, be certain they are honest, reputable and hard-working. All references should be checked. Contact your local Better Business Bureau to find out more about the reputation of the cleaner you hired.

You can hide your spare key on your dog. This is a great idea if your dog is outside all the time, or they can get out through a doggy door. Just hide a spare house key on the inside of your dog’s collar. Then when you need an extra key, you will be able to access this one.

Does your canine stay in the yard while you go out? He or she is actually a great place to store your spare key. Stash the key on the pup’s collar to keep it out of sight. If your pet does not get along with strangers, this will ensure your spare key stays safe.

Invest in a safe in order to secure very valuable items. This is very important, as you do not want your gold, diamonds and personal items exposed if someone were to break into your house. Keep your safe in your basement or attic to make it hard to find.

Do you keep your dog outdoors when you are away from home? This pet may be an excellent storing spot for your spare key. Hook your key to the dog’s collar in a place that is shielded from view. This is the perfect place to store a spare key, especially if your dog doesn’t care for strangers.

Don’t just hide your spare key anywhere. Above doors or under doormats are much too common to hide them and potential criminals will check them first. Hide your alternative key on your dog’s collar.

Before selecting a security firm, ask for recommendations. Others have likely had both good and bad experiences that they can share with you that can then save you a lot of stress and time. Be sure you seek out advice by asking those people.

Comparison shopping is essential when seeking a security system for the home. Prices can be very different from one product to another. Get three quotes or more before making a choice.

Don’t let strangers enter your home. Even if the person has a compelling story, needs help or has something to sell, they should not be given access. Some criminals will come in, case your house and then come back when you are away.

It’s a good idea to have motion sensor lights installed. These kinds of lights will pop right on when they detect motion near your home. They help notify you of any movement around your house and deter burglars too. Don’t forget to replace the bulbs when they burn out.

Be sure your roof, floors, and ceiling are fire resistant. This will make your home more safe, especially if you are in a dry climate that has many power lines. Fire prevention is always a good idea, and sometimes it can be a lifesaving idea!

Changing your locks first can help make your home much more secure. 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 does not cost much, and can be handled very quickly.

Consider hiding valuables within your walls. It is unnecessary cut space into your wall. Most homes are pre-equipped with these handy spaces. If you have an electric socket you do not use, hide valuables behind their covers.

Don’t talk about your vacations on social media. It can be exciting to tell everyone about your vacation, but you could potentially be letting a burglar in on your whereabouts.

If you bought any big or expensive things, wait until trash day to throw away the boxes. Having these type of boxes hanging around will give robbers a good idea of what type of merchandise you have inside of your home.

Do not think that only wealthy people get robbed. Thieves can target homes that look easy to enter. If you use the tips here to improve your home security, your family will be much safer.

Never allow any strangers into your home. Even if their story is compelling, they need assistance or want to sell you something. It’s quite possible that your charming guest is only interested in evaluating the security of your home; if they find it lacking, they may be back later to relieve you of some of your possessions.