Maybe you’ve been considering installing a security system for your home. Lots of people dive right into it without thinking if it’s right for them. Locking your doors at all times and other simple ideas can make a huge difference.

Your faithful dog makes a great hiding spot for a spare key. This will come in handy if your dog is outdoors most of the time or if it can go outside through a pet door. Place the alternative key on your dog’s collar in case of an emergency.

Compare different systems when looking into home security. Some companies offer comparable levels of protection that can be priced very differently. Be certain to obtain multiple quotes prior to making your choice.

Home security systems offer additional features besides loud alarms during a break-in. Some give offer the option to monitor all entries into the house. This isn’t just for burglars; parents with young children can also use it as a valuable tool to know when their child has come inside.

Before selecting any home-security company, talk to your friends to see who they suggest. 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. Taking a little time to listen can make you a much better decision maker when it comes to home security.

Don’t post information about an upcoming vacation anywhere on the web. Although it’s fun to talk about, posting it online makes it more possible for criminals to find out when you’re gone.

You should mute your land line phone if you are going on a vacation. This is because a phone that is ringing and ringing can tip of a burglar that nobody is currently home.

Turn the ringers off on all your phones if you will be away for a prolonged period of time. If the phone continues to ring while you’re gone, this lets an intruder know that the home is empty.

Make sure to clear your yard of brush and dead wood in the summertime. These are vulnerable to fires and put your home in danger. Keep your yard clear of debris to keep your house safe.

Your valuables should not be easily seen from outside your home. It may be great to have large windows with a view, but this means that people can look in. If your windows are facing the street, make sure you cover them and protect your valuables.

Criminals often pick houses where they can see the valuables inside. A big front window gives you a good view; however, it also gives burglars a good view of the interior of your house. Blinds are a great way to allow the light in, without allowing people to see in at the same time.

When selecting an alarm set-up, think about getting one that protects not just the doors in your home. Your windows are easy entry points for crooks too. Every single entry point needs to have monitoring on it. Do this to keep you and your family safe.

Were you aware that your home’s wires are valuable? Lots of people don’t know this until their wires are stolen. Copper, found in many wires, can be removed in little time, and is worth quite a bit of money. Be sure that you keep all your wiring hidden and make it hard to access.

Keep flashlights in your rooms. If the lights go out, they will ensure everyone stays safe. Make sure your whole family knows where to find them and how to operate them.

Light up your home’s exterior. A burglar prefers to sneak around in the dark, and a well lit house is always a deterrent. Put a light anywhere where an intruder can enter your home. Make sure your porch, garage, doorways and windows are well lit.

When moving into a previously owned home, change the locks. Although the previous owner should not have a key, there is no way for you to know this. You can do your own installation to make sure that no one else has a key.

When your door is found ajar when you get home, call the police. You have no way of knowing whether the thieves are still inside. Just contact the police and sit tight until they arrive.

If you scheduled an appointment for a member of the security company to come to your house, ask them to show you some identification first. Potential burglars can easily claim they are security company representatives so that they can enter your home. This can be risky for you and your belongings. Be cautious to stay safe.

Don’t leave empty boxes for big-ticket purchases outside on your curb. When burglars see these boxes, they will know you have them inside your home, making it more likely for them to break in. Cut up the boxes completely instead.

If you hire a security company, read any fine print. 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.

If you have kids or roommates that you don’t want in certain household areas, it’s not necessary to lock multiple doors and tote around tons of keys. Some locks will allow you to punch in a code to gain access to the room. These may be installed by yourself or a security company.

Your landscaping should be designed based on what will be safest for your home. The doors and windows of your home should not be obstructed by trees, fences or shrubs. If criminals know you can see them, they are less likely to break in. Utilize shrubs and trees farther away in order to add beauty to your home while keeping it safe.

Discuss various contracts offered by any home security provider you are exploring. Each will have its own pros and some cons, too. Your bill may be lower with a long-term contract, but you could wind up paying for a service you’re not using if you decide to move. A shorter term allows for flexibility, but it might be expensive.

Make an appointment with a home security company to evaluate the security needs of your home specifically. Each situation is different. By locating the company that will create the best plan for you, you will be assured you are receiving the best possible home security.

Your security company might give you the option to lease and eventually buy your security equipment. Purchasing your equipment may cost more in the beginning, but this is a one-time cost which does not recur. The cost of leasing is lower at first but adds up over time. Investigate each option and determine which makes more sense.

Maintain the exterior areas in your house so they are well lit. Burglars seek darkness so that they can stay hidden. Install lights in areas where intruders might come. This can include the garage, doorways, porches and other areas which invite an intruder in.

Don’t hide your keys in obvious places. An easily moved object close to the door is the first place a burglar will look. Doormats, too. Instead, you should keep your spare keys with a trusted neighbor. If none of these options are possible, try to think of an unusual hiding place.

Never place empty boxes for expensive items out on the curb. Burglars will notice these boxes and know what kind of valuables you have. You should cut up the boxes once you empty them.

If you often turn your lights off/on around the same time, consider using a timer. This makes it easy for you because you do not have to turn the switch. It also makes the lights go off and on even if you are not at home.

Ask whether or not your home security company gives you the option to lease and/or buy your equipment. It may be more expensive to buy equipment at the outset; however, you may save money in the long run if you are free from monthly payments. Leasing is often less expensive, but it may involve contracts and higher monthly fees. Pick the option that suits your particular situation best.

You might need a home security system. However, you may find that you only need to make a few minor changes. Check out all your choices to know which ones are right for you.

Do not store your vehicle registration documents in your car’s glove compartment. This is not wise since anyone who has access to them will know where you live. Keep these papers on you or hide them under a seat in your vehicle. They have to be available if the cops pull you over.