A lot of people believe security systems require expensive technicians who leave your home a wired mess. But there are simple things that you can do on your own. Follow the tips presented here for quick and easy ways to secure your home.

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 the safe hidden in a hard-to-find location like an attic or a basement closet.

Be sure that your home is always occupied. You can purchase timers that can control your household electronics such as lights, TVs and radios. Potential intruders will stay away from your home if they believe someone is inside. This helps you keep your house burglar-free.

Think very carefully about where to hide your spare key. Intruders will more than likely check under your doormat or above your door frame. Rather, think about putting a key on your outside dog’s collar.

Buy ceiling, roofing and flooring which is resistant to fire. This can provide additional safety to the home, particularly in dry regions. Fire prevention is paramount.

Protect your spare key by using your dog. This will come in handy if your dog is outdoors most of the time or if it can go outside through a pet 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.

Your friends may have some great advice for choosing the right company. You can learn a lot from people who have already dealt with these companies. Make broad inquiries so that you are able to make a well-informed decision.

Do not open your door for anyone you don’t know. Criminals find ways to get people to open doors so they can commit crimes. Create a rule where you only allow those you’ve invited to your home inside.

Seek recommendations from friends and family when choosing a security company or system. This will help you to reduce the stress that you have on your search for a good one. Taking a little time to listen can make you a much better decision maker when it comes to home security.

You should clean your yard of vegetation and dead wood. When summer heats up, such debris can catch fire. To make sure your home is safer, clear your yard periodically.

You should not be shy. It is important to communicate with others who also live in your area. Keep an eye out for their houses, and request that they return the favor. You never want to ignore gossip. You might hear helpful information, for instance if strangers have been hanging around.

Use motion sensor lights. This type of light will come on when they detect motion within a certain distance of your home. These lights will make you aware of, and can also scare off, potential burglars. Don’t forget to replace the bulbs when they burn out.

Switch your locks. As time passes, keys end up getting into the wrong hands. This doesn’t usually cost much, and it can be accomplished in less than a day.

Follow your instincts when choosing a home security company. If you are hesitant about the company, your gut feeling is especially important. You don’t want to refrain from choosing a different company or technician. Ultimately, the whole point is for you to have peace of mind.

Security starts with new locks. Maybe you had a roommate move out or have a disgruntled ex-lover, changing the locks is the best way to keep yourself safe. Most locksmiths can accomplish the job within 24 hours.

When deciding on an alarm system, be sure and get one that protects more than your doors. Windows are a way for thieves to enter your home as well. Be sure your home alarm covers all entry points into your home. You want the best security possible for your family.

Home security systems aren’t the only way to ensure your family is safe. You have many options when it comes to protecting your home and family. Keep this advice in mind to boost your home security.

Don’t hide an extra key under a rock or in a planter. You might think that you are providing yourself a safe way into the house if you misplace your keys, but you are really inviting attackers inside. Thieves are familiar with these hiding spots. Instead, trust a neighbor to hold your spare key.