Locksmiths are essential for securing your home in a culture where safety is a top priority. These often-overlooked professionals handle tasks ranging from lock installation and repair to providing expert advice on home security.
Safeguard Your Area with Locked Entrances
The primary rule for home security is simple but frequently forgotten: lock up. Deadlocks and key-operated window locks not only complicate an intruder’s attempt to enter your home but also hinder a swift exit, making it difficult for burglars to carry away large items. Don’t make it easy for criminals; refrain from keeping a spare house key in common, easily accessible spots such as under the front doormat, above the door, in the mailbox, under a fake stone, or in the nearby garden bed.
Widen Your Watchfulness to Safeguard Sheds, Garages, and Side Gates
Because sheds and garages are often used infrequently and may lack proper security, they can be inviting to thieves. It’s advised not to store valuable items in your shed whenever possible. Lock your garage door if it has a mechanical lock, and if not, consider using a padlock from the inside. Disconnecting the power for the garage door when not needed can enhance security. Always keep side gates locked, not only when you’re absent.
Optimized Visibility Boosts Security
A well-organized property isn’t just visually pleasing; it also contributes to security. Landscaping around your home should address both aesthetics and visibility. Trim trees and shrubs to maintain a clear view of your property. Remove bushes that might block doorways, access paths, or hiding spots under windows. Motion-activated sensor lights provide a cost-effective and efficient deterrent for burglars.
Look into the Viability of Investing in a Security Alarm System
Installing a reliable security alarm system is a valuable investment in home security. It’s advisable to consult with a professional locksmith for this purpose. They can guide you in choosing the right system and offer expert installation. Security alarms act as a deterrent to potential burglars and provide peace of mind, particularly when you’re away on holidays.
Avoid Making Your Plans Public on Social Media
It’s crucial not to broadcast your absence on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Sharing details about your extended vacation or overseas trip may tip off potential thieves to the fact that your home is unoccupied, increasing the risk of a break-in. Keep your travel plans confidential and share them only with trusted friends and family members.
Fend Off Allure for Burglars
Valuable items should be kept out of view from your windows. If you’ve recently made notable purchases, like a large-screen television or a home theater system, make sure not to leave the packaging where it’s easily seen. This principle also applies to items stored in your car, whether it’s parked at home or elsewhere.
Craft the Pretense of Ongoing Habitation
A letterbox devoid of mail, filled with catalogs and junk mail, is a clear sign that a house is unattended. Whether it’s a vacant property or a family on vacation, it can pique the interest of thieves. Request a family member or neighbor to collect your mail while you’re away. Additionally, ensure that the bins are placed for rubbish collection and later put away. Consider measures like turning on lights, occasional garden watering, or lawn mowing (if applicable) to create the illusion of an occupied home. If you have newspapers or food boxes delivered, don’t forget to suspend these services temporarily.
Compile and Ensure the Safety of Your Belongings
Identify your belongings both in your residence and workplace. Take photographs of your valuables and maintain a record of important items, noting make, model, and serial numbers. Think about conducting a video tour of your home, documenting items in cupboards and other spaces. Make sure your photos and videos are securely stored or backed up in the cloud. Furthermore, having insurance for your belongings provides an additional layer of protection.
Preserve Your Valuables
If you possess valuable jewelry or other irreplaceable items, consider securing them in a safe. Consult a skilled locksmith to advise on the appropriate safe for your needs and ensure its proper installation. While some burglars may attempt to transport a safe, proper installation is crucial for maintaining the security of its contents. Remember that the installation is as important as the quality of the safe. Exercise caution when dealing with substandard products available in certain hardware stores and retail outlets, as they may provide nothing more than lockable boxes without the security features of a genuine safe.
Embrace the Rule of Community
In several neighborhoods, Neighborhood Watch groups are active. Comprised of community residents, these groups vigilantly observe for any suspicious activities and report them to the police. Verify if there’s a Neighborhood Watch in your suburb, and it’s a good idea to request your neighbors to keep a watchful eye on your property when you’re away.
Prioritizing home security is essential and should never be overlooked. Locksmiths, with their expertise in locks and security, play a vital role in keeping your property safe. By adhering to these home security tips and consulting with a professional locksmith, you can strengthen your home against potential threats, ensuring that your peace of mind is always protected. Keep in mind, your safety and security are invaluable and deserving of every effort and investment.