Protecting your home is essential for ensuring the safety of your family and belongings. With increasing concerns about burglary and home invasions, proactive measures can reduce risks and provide peace of mind.
Home security is about more than just locking doors; it involves a comprehensive approach to deter intruders and safeguard valuables.
Implementing the following tips will help strengthen your home’s defences and minimise vulnerabilities.
1. Keep Curtains Closed
Open curtains can provide natural light, but they also offer intruders a clear view into your home. This visibility allows them to assess whether anyone is present and identify valuable items. Always close curtains when you’re not in the room or at night. Privacy films on windows are another option; these films allow light to enter while blocking external views.
However, they are typically ineffective after dark, so closing curtains remains essential. For added security, consider layering blinds and curtains to make it more difficult for outsiders to see inside.
2. Install a Doorbell Camera
A doorbell camera is a practical way to monitor your front door and identify visitors. These devices allow you to see who’s at the door in real-time through a smartphone app, even if you’re away. Some models feature two-way audio, enabling you to communicate with visitors without opening the door.
Many doorbell cameras also include package detection, notifying you of deliveries to prevent theft. If purchasing a camera is not feasible, a basic door peephole can provide an affordable alternative for increased security.
3. Strengthen Doors and Locks
Doors are a common entry point for burglars, so ensuring they are secure is vital. Weak doors and locks make it easy for intruders to break in. Reinforce your door by installing a Grade 1 deadbolt, which is more durable than standard locks.
Replace standard strike plates with strike boxes that use long screws to anchor them securely into the frame. Additionally, inspect your door’s hinges and frames to ensure they are sturdy and free from damage. Maintenance can prevent vulnerabilities and improve overall security.
4. Be Cautious with Information Sharing
Unintentional information sharing can make your home an easy target for intruders. Avoid posting about expensive purchases or holidays on social media, as these can signal when your home is unoccupied or contains high-value items. If you need to dispose of packaging for new electronics or other valuables, break down the boxes and conceal them in your rubbish bin.
This prevents criminals from identifying recent purchases. Keeping your daily habits and routines private also reduces the risk of being targeted.
5. Rethink Spare Key Storage
Hiding spare keys in obvious locations, such as under mats or plant pots, is risky because intruders are likely to check these spots first. Instead, choose less predictable hiding places, such as inside a secure key box mounted to a wall.
Alternatively, consider giving a spare key to a trusted neighbour or family member. This ensures you can still access your home in an emergency without compromising security.
Review your spare key arrangements periodically to ensure they remain discreet and effective.
6. Use Motion-Activated Outdoor Lighting
Dark areas around your property provide cover for intruders, making it easier for them to approach unnoticed. Motion-activated lights are an effective deterrent, as they illuminate when movement is detected.
Place these lights at critical points, such as near entrances, pathways, and garages, to increase visibility. Solar-powered options are a cost-effective choice, reducing energy consumption while improving security. Check and maintain outdoor lights regularly to ensure they function reliably.
7. Maintain Your Garden
Overgrown bushes, trees, and shrubs can provide hiding spots for intruders, allowing them to monitor your property or wait for the right moment to enter. Regularly trimming vegetation reduces these opportunities and enhances visibility around your home.
Maintaining a tidy garden also gives the impression that the property is well-cared for, which can discourage criminals. Additionally, avoid planting dense foliage near windows or doors, as this can obstruct views and create potential hiding spots.
8. Secure Valuables in a Safe
If an intruder gains access to your home, having a secure place to store valuables can limit their losses. Invest in a high-quality safe that is fire-resistant and difficult to move. Anchor the safe to a fixed point to prevent it from being removed entirely. Use the safe to store items such as jewellery, cash, passports, and important documents.
For larger valuables, such as electronics, consider using hidden compartments or lockable storage units. These measures make it more challenging for intruders to access your most important possessions.
9. Protect Personal Documents
In addition to material goods, intruders may target personal documents that can be used for identity theft or fraud. Store these items in a secure filing cabinet with a lock. For added protection, use a cable lock to secure the cabinet to heavy furniture, making it harder to remove.
Shred unnecessary documents containing personal information before disposing of them to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. These steps help safeguard sensitive information and reduce the risk of financial or identity-related crimes.
10. Upgrade Locks and Doors
Outdated or poorly maintained locks and doors can compromise your home’s security. Inspect all locks, including those on windows, to ensure they function properly. Consider upgrading to smart locks, which provide advanced features such as keyless entry, biometric access, and remote operation.
These locks offer an added layer of convenience and control. Ensure doors are made from solid materials and that frames are strong enough to withstand force. Check for wear and tear and replace components as needed to maintain optimal security.
Stay Proactive About Security
Home security is an ongoing process that requires continuous evaluation and updates. Stay informed about new technologies and techniques that can enhance your safety. If you need guidance or professional assistance, Ambassador Locksmiths can help you select and install the right security solutions for your home. Call us on (02) 4942 2202 to discuss your needs and protect what matters most.