Do you need to buy a security system? A lot of homeowners get a security system without taking the time to explore their different options. Simple things, like keeping your doors and windows locked, can make a bigger difference than the system.

You should always make sure your home looks like its occupied. Buy timers so things will go on and off at different times. This makes it appear that someone is home. This will help safeguard your house to the best of your ability.

Make sure your home appears occupied. You could purchase timers which make lights and TV’s, as well as other devices, power on or off at varying intervals. This makes it appear that someone is home. This is an excellent technique that helps avoid robberies while keeping the property safe.

Only give your house key to a professional house cleaner if you trust them. Before you give a cleaner full access to your home for extended periods of time, you have to be certain that they’re trustworthy and reliable. Make sure you check references. If the house cleaner is employed by a company, check with the BBB of your area to determine their reputation.

When you buy a new home, be sure to have the locks changed. You cannot be sure of the number of key copies that the former owner gave out. To make sure you have the only access to the home, hire a locksmith. Also, if you ever lose your keys, do the same.

Good home security systems sound a loud alarm when breached, and that’s not all. Most systems could sound an alarm when someone enters the home. This is important if you have small kids.

Do you keep your dog outside if you leave the home? They can help you with your spare key. Hook your key to the dog’s collar in a place that is shielded from view. Your dog is an especially good key hiding spot if he doesn’t react well to strangers, since they won’t approach him, but the key will be there if you need it.

You should invest in fire-resistant roofing, flooring and ceiling. This helps protect your home when you dwell in a more dry climate. Preventing fires is the best way to deal with them.

Never allow str4angers to enter your house. This includes a salesperson or people looking for help. This is the first rule of keeping your home secure.

Secure your garage. A common concern expressed among homeowners is that someone might enter their garage and use that as an entrance to their home. There is a solution, however. Get a C-clamp to secure your garage door if it is mounted on a track.

Do not forget to secure the garage attached to your home. Many people worry about burglars getting into their attached garage and then entering their home, but there is a fix. You can use a C-clamp to stop the door from being opened.

Compared to city dwellers, you might feel more safe in your rural home. There are some who believe country folk are more at risk because neighbors are not nearby. Some people think burglaries are less prevalent in rural parts.

If you own a garage, be sure to use it to place your car, as opposed to using it as a storage. You will not have to worry about thieves taking your car if it is inside your garage. Keeping your car out of sight is also a good way to prevent intruders from determining whether or not you are home.

Walls are great for hiding items. If you have valuables that are small in size, you may want to hide them within your walls. Just access unused switch plates, outlets or phone jacks. If you use all of them, you can always have fake ones installed.

Your risks of being the target of home intruders really doesn’t depend on the area in which you live. There are some who believe country folk are more at risk because neighbors are not nearby. Some think that there are less burglars in rural areas.

Ensure that valuables are stored in a hidden area that isn’t visible from outside your home. While it may be nice to look out, burglars will see your valuables inside. If you’ve got street facing windows, be sure and keep them covered.

Regardless of how long you plan on being away from your home, always lock all the doors and windows whenever you leave. It is more common than you would believe for a thief to find a home, try the door and walk right in when it’s unlocked. Thieves can steal a lot of valuable stuff in mere minutes.

Always lock your home when you leave it, no matter how soon you plan to return. A lot of times, burglaries happen due to carelessness. It can be a quick job for a burglar to steal items of great value.

It is important that your alarm system wiring is not exposed anywhere. One of the ways an intruder can get around a security system is by disconnecting or cutting the wires. Hide them in the walls or bury them underground to keep people from tampering with them. This helps keep you and your family safe.

Always ask for references before letting a contractor or a maid in your home. Do not hesitate to hire someone to run a background check if you have doubts. You don’t know whether the contractor, maid, or repairman that you’ve hired is trustworthy and handing them your keys could be a costly mistake.

Are you aware that your home’s wires are worth something? People don’t realize this until it is stolen. Copper wiring is quite valuable, and it’s quick and easy for criminals to strip it right off the outside of your house! Be sure to hide your wires or make sure they are hard to get to.

Find out how long a company has been in operation before signing a home security contract. Look for a security company that is well-established and has extensive experience in the industry. Being in the hands of a good company helps you have peace about your decision.

Before letting a home security representative inside, ask for identification. It is easy for potential thieves to present themselves as representatives of a company in order to gain access to your home. This is dangerous to your valuables and your family. Make sure you are as cautious as you can be.

Keeping thieves from the contents of your garage can be as simple as making sure they can’t easily look inside. Frosted windows prevent thieves from looking into your home and are inexpensive. It’s also a good idea to avoid leaving your garage door open for any longer than absolutely necessary, even if you’re at home.

In the end, you may decide that an alarm system is the correct choice for your home. But, perhaps all you need to do is make some changes in your home. Ensure you thoroughly research your options so you can select the best home-security plan for your home.

Keep your windows covered if you’re out. Leaving the curtains up invites people to peer into your living room. If a burglar sees something that is enticing, they are going to try and get it from your home. You ought to turn the curtains down if you are sleeping as well.