Do security systems confuse you? Have you the foggiest idea where to begin? If you identify with this, think about your different options. The following information will give you everything you need to know.

Make your house look occupied all the time. Timers can be used to turn lights and televisions on and off when required. This makes it look as though people are home no matter what. It is also another way to secure your home.

Be very cautious about entrusting a maid service with a key to your home. If you do give out a key to such individuals, be certain you know their reputation for honesty. Make sure you check references. If the cleaner is from a firm, try calling the local BBB to find out about the firm’s reputation.

Once you buy a house, switch out the locks. You simply do not know how many keys to the old locks are floating around. Having a locksmith replace the locks will ensure that no strangers have a key. Be sure to cal a locksmith if you were to lose your keys as well.

Use a safe to protect your valuables. This will help to keep your jewelry and other valuables secured in the event of a break in. Hide your safe in a hard to find place like the basement or attic.

Do you have a dog that stays in your yard when you’re not at home? Using Fido to hide your spare key can be a clever trick. Fasten the key to your dog’s collar to hide it from view. This is the perfect place to store a spare key, especially if your dog doesn’t care for strangers.

Buy fire-resistant building materials. This adds an extra layer of protection to your home, especially if you live in a very dry area with power lines. Home security also includes taking steps to prevent a fire from completely destroying your home.

When looking to purchase a good home security system, it is best that you look at many companies. Different companies can provide equivalent levels of service and security, but their prices can vary wildly. Ensure you talk to a minimum of three companies to obtain quotes before deciding the one that you believe is best for you.

Don’t use social media to announce that you will be gone for an extended period of time. It can be exciting to tell everyone about your vacation, but you could potentially be letting a burglar in on your whereabouts.

Don’t post information about an upcoming vacation anywhere on the web. Although your first instinct is to share the news about an upcoming trip that excites you, the info may well fall into the hands of people who’d be interested in burglarizing your home while you’re away.

Don’t open your door for strangers. Criminals can be endlessly inventive when it comes to generating a convincing story to force their way into your home. No matter how sympathetic the story, remember that it could all be a put-on. Only open the door for people you are expecting.

Consider the advice of your friends when selecting your home security company. Others may have had bad and good experiences that they share with you so that you may be able to save time and stress. By asking around, you will gain information about the pros and cons of a variety of options.

Keep your car in your garage. Keeping your car secured will prevent people from vandalizing it. If you keep your car in the garage instead of in the driveway, it is harder for thieves to know whether you are at home or not.

Always have your security system checked each year. Your security company should send a representative to check your system. Your security system’s quality can be impacted by numerous factors, such as the weather and wild animals. Sometimes, you may need a professional to locate the problem.

Have lights that are motion-sensor installed. This type of light will come on when they detect motion within a certain distance of your home. You will receive advance warning of any potential issues, and a would-be intruder will probably be scared off. Replace bulbs regularly and check the sensors once a month.

Always change the locks if you have someone move out of your home. Whether you just bought your home or someone just moved out that you were living with, this is an important step to any new situation. It is not expensive and you can do it in less than a day.

You should know more about home security after going over these tips. Remember these tips and think about the best way for you to protect your family. You will rest assured knowing your home is safe and feel confident about your decisions related to this important matter.

Don’t put spare keys inside plant boxes or beneath the welcome mat. Instead of letting you into your home in the event you are locked out, you are providing criminals with easy access to your home. Burglars are well aware of these hiding places. Ask a friend, neighbor or relative to keep your extra keys for you.