Just as we brush our teeth and exercise our bodies, we must also develop good habits to maintain a healthy level of home security. Installing strong locks, exterior lighting connected to "motion sensors" and automating some of our interior lighting are among the most successful approaches to slowing down or even stopping a criminal, but a comprehensive plan involves regular "check ups" around the home, and the establishment of a security "routine".
It all begins with "getting into" the home, which means a close scrutiny of all doors and windows. Of course many people believe that only the ground floor windows should be of concern, but this is not the case. There are literally thousands of homes that are burglarized by a thief who "borrows" a neighbor's ladder or finds some other method of reaching an open or unlocked second story window. So, the best method is to make a habit of closing and bolting all windows before leaving home.
Doors are also a major area of concern for home security, and a homeowner should have their doors locked when they are both at home and away. This is because crime statistics indicate that home invasions are on the rise, and such a bold variety of criminal is clearly a threat. Simply making a habit of locking doors and setting alarms when coming in or going out is a simple and easy way of protecting the entire family.
One doorway frequently overlooked is that from the garage into the house. Even though a garage may have door openers that make it impossible for a criminal to force their way inside, most garages have small windows that are quite simple to open, and through which many homes are illegally entered. This vulnerable doorway should have a solid wood or reinforced door installed as well as a deadbolt lock that is difficult or impossible to "pick". This doorway should also be locked when homeowners are away or inside of the house.
Many homeowners make a habit of leaving garage doors open, and this too is an invitation to trouble. It only takes a few seconds to close the doors after entering or exiting the garage and is a truly healthy security habit to maintain.
Hatchways and windows into basement areas are also easily compromised, and performing some simple tasks, such as installing guards and interior locks is a sure method of preventing a burglary. Additionally, a seasonal checkup on such areas can really help to prevent any problems presented by weather damage, water problems, or even the occasional squirrel or other wildlife that tend to meddle in such areas.
After ensuring that doors and windows are as secure as possible, it is a good idea to create a "neighborhood" watch of some kind or another. In this modern era, with busy schedules and electronic communications taking over, it can be very easy to forget about neighbors. This is unfortunate because crime statistics demonstrate the lower numbers of home burglaries in areas where neighbors join together to keep a watchful eye on one another's homes. Staying in touch with neighbors is a great "habit" for adding security to a home and community.
ADT Home Security is the leading provider of residential security systems in the U.S. ADT security systems can help protect your home and family with state-of-the art equipment and round-the-clock monitoring. You can't go wrong when you choose America's number-one name in home security, ADT. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roger_Weaver |
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