Home security is a very important topic to all, but it is something that people do not truly understand. Begin by studying this topic intensively to learn how to protect your home, your family and your belongings. The following information can give you the best chance to safeguard your home.

Consider using your dog as a place to store your spare key. This only makes sense if your dog is outdoors a lot or you have a pet door. Attach the key to your dog’s collar, and it will be handy if you ever need a spare.

If you need to leave a key for a maid service, make sure that that whoever cleans your house is professional and trustworthy. When giving your house cleaner the key to your home, you need to be sure that they are reputable and honest. Ask for references and check them thoroughly. If it is a known company, check with your local BBB.

Get a safe to protect your valuable items. If an intruder breaks into your home, at least these valuables will be secure. Keep it hidden in a hard to find location.

Be smart about where you decide to hide spare keys. Intruders will more than likely check under your doormat or above your door frame. Try to find somewhere less obvious.

Is your dog outside even if you are away? If so, the dog can be a terrific spot to keep a spare key. Hook your key to the dog’s collar in a place that is shielded from view. This works very well if you have a pet that is not very fond of strangers. You will get the access you need without having to worry about your safety.

Be sure your valuables are not visible from the outside of your house. Large front windows are great, but they also allow others to peer into your home. You should cover any windows that are facing the street so your valuables will be safe.

Regardless of how long you think you’ll be gone, make sure to lock your doors. Many home thefts start with the thief simply walking in an unlocked door or window. It won’t take long for thieves to steal lots of expensive valuables.

Keep your most precious belongings inside a safe. This will help to keep your jewelry and other valuables secured in the event of a break in. Keep the safe hidden somewhere remote.

Purchase flashlights that have good batteries, and keep them in every room in your home in case the power goes out. Flashlights are essential since they let you move around in an emergency. Teach your children how to use the flashlights so that everyone in your household can help.

Change the locks on any new place you move into. Even though the previous tenant may have turned in their key, you never know if they have a copy. You can purchase locks and install them yourself to ascertain that only you have a key.

When you’re going away, turn off your phone ringers. If the phone continues to ring while you’re gone, this lets an intruder know that the home is empty.

Ask the home security company about how long they’ve been running prior to signing up. A company with a long history has proved they can survive and provide great service to people. It will make you feel better knowing that the company you choose is not fly by night.

Be sure and keep the outside of your house well lit. Burglars prefer the cover that night provides their criminal activities. Install lights by each and every entryway to your home. This will include doorways, porches, your garage, and ground floor windows that criminals can use.

Clear away all the dead and dried out vegetation around your home in the summer. As things heat up in the summer, items may catch on fire and threaten your home. Make sure your yard is clean for the sake of your safety – and that of your family!

Install a surveillance system in your home. Video camera installation can effectively make your home secure. Visible cameras can scare intruders, and hidden ones can catch them in the act. A lot of surveillance systems may be accessed through a cell phone, letting you check on your house when you’re away.

Don’t let anyone peek into your garage. Frosted windows will keep a burglar from being able to see inside. The material needed to do this can be found at home improvement stores. Also, don’t leave your door open for long periods of time when you work there.

Go with your gut when choosing a home security company to install a system. This is particularly true if you’re uneasy with those that install your actual system. Never be afraid to ask for a new installer or to get an entirely new firm. The system and the company should put your mind at ease.

If you purchase an expensive item, get rid of the box rather than allowing it to sit outside your home. Burglars can see these and they know that you have them in your home, increasing your chances of a break-in. Remember to cut up the boxes when they’re emptied.

Home security is vital to protect you and your family from robbery. However, not many people know how to really protect their house and belongings. Armed with the information presented here, you have the resources you need to secure your home 24/7.

If you live in a rural area, you may not be as concerned about home break-ins as people who live in the city. There are differences between large cities and homes located in the countryside. Not everyone believes this, though.