Anytime you’re looking to keep your home secure with a security system, you must gather up as much relevant information as you can. This should not be a decision made in haste. It is better to concentrate on providing the best level of safety possible for your family and home.

Does your dog remain outside while you’re gone? Your pet might just be the perfect place to stash a spare key to your home. Simply put the key onto your dog’s collar so that robbers cannot locate it. This is very effective if your pet is afraid of strangers; therefore, burglars are not very likely to notice the key.

Your dog can safeguard an extra key. This is a great idea if your dog is outside all the time, or they can get out through a doggy door. Attach the key to your dog’s collar, and it will be handy if you ever need a spare.

Home security systems are able to do more than just sounding the alarm whenever you have an intruder. They can actually be set to chime whenever a monitored door is opened. Parents riding herd on small children will be thankful for this feature which makes it harder for kids to sneak outside without supervision.

You should not let anyone inside your home. Even if their story is compelling, they need assistance or want to sell you something. Some people just want to know if there is a security system so they can plan on coming back later or not.

Comparison shop when you are ready to buy a home security system. Prices for home security systems can vary and they do not all offer the same services. Make sure you get quotes from at least three companies before you decide on which one you think is the best option.

Don’t allow a complete stranger to come in your home. You never know who they might be, despite their story. Create a rule where you only allow those you’ve invited to your home inside.

Remove all of the vegetation outside in the hotter months. As the summer heat rolls in, there is a higher chance that these can catch on fire, putting your home at risk. Regularly clear away your yard to keep your home in good standing and safe for your family.

Be smart about where you decide to hide spare keys. Above doors or under doormats are much too common to hide them and potential criminals will check them first. Try to find somewhere less obvious.

See if your area police department has any home security programs. Many police departments offer programs that can include home inspections, home security training and more. Call them up to find out more.

If you live more out in the country, you may think that you’re not at risk. People who live in the country may even be more vulnerable because they do not have nearby neighbors. Some think rural areas see less burglary.

Before selecting any home-security company, talk to your friends to see who they suggest. They may have had experiences with certain companies and can lead you in the right direction. By asking around, you will gain information about the pros and cons of a variety of options.

Walls are a great hiding spot for your valuables. Jewelry and other small items can be protected very well when placed in hiding places in your walls. Use an old switch plate, outlet or phone jack. Even if every single plate in your home is being used, you can purchase a fake one purpose-built for concealing valuables.

Don’t put your spare key in an obvious place near your front door. You may believe you are making life easier for yourself, but you may just be giving thieves simple access to your house. Thieves are familiar with these hiding spots. A better option is to entrust an honest neighbor with a spare key.

Shut off the ringer for all of the telephones in your home if you are planning to go on vacation for a long time. A constantly ringing phone lets thieves know that you are not home and could increase the chances of you getting robbed.

Make sure that your valuables cannot be seen from outside the home. Large windows let in light and give you a great view outside, but that works both ways. If you’ve got street facing windows, be sure and keep them covered.

You should now be much more knowledgeable on the topic of home security. It’s not necessary to dive into the world of home security without knowledge. You must place your family’s safety as a top priority. Keep these tips to consider as you go on.

When summer comes around, eliminate all vegetation and dead wood from your yard. As things heat up in the summer, items may catch on fire and threaten your home. Keep these cleared away regularly to maintain your home’s safety and to keep it in good shape.