Whether you want to reduce the chances of becoming a victim of crime or feel that your home could be made more safe and secure, there are many changes you can make that will help.
Protecting our homes and families is paramount, so it’s worth putting measures in place to minimize the risks. There are more home protection measures available now than ever before, so you shouldn’t find it too difficult.
Here are 9 ways to increase safety at home.
Install a home security alarm
If you want peace of mind that your home is safe when you are away or even during the night while you are sleeping, a home security alarm will give you just that. From fully monitored systems, to those with a basic alarm function, there are many systems to suit a range of budgets.
If the idea of having the hassle of a system being wired throughout your home fills you with dread, you needn’t worry. There are hundreds of wireless systems available that carry out the same function and can be fitted with minimal disruption.
Keep doors and windows locked
This is something to keep an eye on, particularly during warmer months. When it is hot, you may be tempted to leave windows open to allow air to flow freely throughout the home. This isn’t so much of an issue during the day when you are at home, but in the evening it’s a burglar’s paradise. It only takes minutes for someone to gain access to your home, so it’s important to be vigilant.
Keeping windows and doors locked will help to keep your home and your family safe, and will vastly reduce the risk of you becoming a victim of crime.
Consider purchasing a gun
Having a gun at home is not a decision that you should make without careful consideration, so it is worth doing as much research as possible before purchasing one. You would, of course, need to be fully trained on how to use it, but a gun may provide you with additional peace of mind in the event of anyone trying to enter your home.
There are many resources that will provide a wealth of knowledge about the type of gun that may be best suited to you. Visiting an online gun store will also give you a good indication of the weapons available and other useful information that may aid your decision.
Smart doorbell
Smart home technology is a rapidly growing industry, and one of the most popular in terms of home protection is a smart doorbell. They work just like a standard doorbell, but the video function allows you to see who is visiting your property and, depending on the type purchased, may also allow you to have a two-way conversation with them.
It is an affordable and functional way of adding an extra layer of security to your home.
Motion sensor lighting
Motion sensor lighting does what it says on the tin. When the built-in sensors detect motion, lights automatically go on. These are particularly useful in terms of external security when used to light up driveways, front yards, or dimly lit and secluded areas where intruders could easily hide. They also come in handy in terms of safety as they minimize the risk of trips and falls when entering and exiting the home.
Minimize the information you share on social media
You may be excited about your imminent vacation or want to show off your new outfit for the gala dinner you are attending that evening. What you may fail to realize is that posting the details could be compromising your safety.
Telling people where you are going, or making it obvious that your home will be empty, could be asking for trouble. Keep posts and information to a minimum, and it could make all the difference to the security of your home as well as your personal safety.
Keep expensive belongings hidden
If an intruder enters your home, they will take whatever they can as quickly as possible. Keeping items such as money, electronics, and jewelry hidden or locked away will help minimize your losses, so it’s worth taking the time to keep them safe, secure, and out of sight.
If any of your items are exceptionally valuable, it may be worth having a safe fitted in your home. It will ensure that no one can steal your belongings and could also help to reduce your home insurance premiums.
Have your gas boiler serviced annually
If you have a gas boiler, you must have it serviced at least once a year. Carbon monoxide has no odor or color, so you may be unaware if it is escaping – and that could prove fatal. Having your boiler serviced will ensure that it is working as it should be and reduce the risk of a leak.
It is also wise to have a carbon monoxide detector fitted nearby. In the event of a CO2 leak, an alarm will sound, allowing you to turn off the gas supply, open windows, and contact a qualified engineer.
Have smoke alarms fitted
If you don’t already have smoke alarms fitted in your home, you should do so immediately. They will detect excessive smoke levels and could protect your family and your home from being injured or damaged in a fire.
Smoke alarms come in both battery and hard-wired options and should be fitted on each level of your home. Although both carry out the same function, hard-wired alarms are considered safer. Battery operated alarms are solely reliant on the batteries not running out of charge, whereas a hard-wired alarm will work as long as there is a power supply.
Regardless of the type of smoke alarm you have, you should test them at least once a year to ensure they are working correctly. If you are in any doubt at all, contact your local fire station, who should be able to give you some useful help and advice.
