Home protection is a vitally important topic that all homeowners should be familiar with. There are many things to consider when it comes to home security, and it can be confusing to know where to start. This blog post discusses six essential things every homeowner should know about home protection.
Acquire the right insurance
Your home insurance is a critical part of protecting your home. A good policy should cover loss or damage due to theft, fire, vandalism, and natural disasters. Make sure you check with your insurance company to ensure that you have the proper levels of coverage in place so that you're protected in case of an emergency. Basic policies typically cover theft and fire damage, while comprehensive coverage can include loss from vandalism, natural disasters, and more. If you need help selecting the right policy, a qualified insurance agent can help.
Practice good security habits
Developing good security habits is an essential part of protecting your home. This includes locking all doors and windows away from the house and keeping valuables out of sight outdoors. For instance, if you are going to be out for an extended period, ensure all doors and windows are locked. It's also essential to keep shrubbery around the perimeter of your home trimmed so that it won't provide cover for intruders. Shrubs should be kept to a height of no more than three feet, and avoid planting thick hedges near windows. These hedges can provide a convenient hiding place for criminals. Finally, always keep an eye out for suspicious activity in your neighborhood. Keep track of unfamiliar people and vehicles; if you notice anything strange, report it immediately to the police.
Install upgraded locks
Upgrading the locks on your doors and windows is another critical step in home security. High-quality locks that meet the proper safety standards are essential for keeping criminals out of your home. Look for deadbolts with at least a one-inch throw, as these are more resistant to break-ins than standard door knobs. Ensure all windows have correctly functioning locks and replace any broken ones immediately. Modern locks also come in keyless varieties, which use a code for entry and can provide extra security. Some even implement fingerprint or facial recognition technology for added protection.
Invest in home safety technology
Technology has revolutionized the way people protect their homes. Innovative home features like motion detectors, surveillance cameras, doorbell cameras, and other connected devices give you an added layer of protection against intruders. In addition to acting as a deterrent, these devices can alert you to suspicious activity and provide visual evidence of any intrusions. Smart home tech can also monitor your home remotely, so you can keep an eye on things even when you're away from the house. Often, insurance companies provide discounts for homes with these types of systems, so it's worth looking into. This means that your investment in home safety technology can pay off in more ways than one.
Utilize outdoor lighting
Installing outdoor lights is another great way to protect your home. Outdoor lighting can deter criminals from attempting to break into your house, making their job much harder and increasing the chances of them being seen. Motion-activated lights are a good choice, as they will only turn on when someone is in the vicinity, creating a sense of awareness for anyone who walks by. Lights should be placed near all entryways, including around windows and doors, pathways, and driveways, to make it difficult for intruders to access your home without being seen. You can also consider installing security floodlights, which are bright enough to illuminate an entire area.
Be prepared for emergencies
In addition to protecting your home from criminals, you must be prepared for potential emergencies. Have an emergency plan and ensure everyone in the household knows what it is. This should include where to meet if the family needs to evacuate and who to contact for help. Ensure all necessary documents, medications, and other essential items are easily accessible in case you need to leave in a hurry. Having a home security system in place can also be beneficial, as it can alert you to smoke, carbon monoxide, or other hazardous conditions that could put your family in danger.
Overall, the best way to protect your home is by taking a multipronged approach. Start with basic steps like having an adequate insurance policy and practicing good security habits, then look into more advanced options like installing upgraded locks and utilizing innovative home technology. Finally, don't forget outdoor lighting, which can be an essential component of any home security system. These measures can help ensure your home is as secure as possible and give you peace of mind.