The security of your home is essential, and if you are trying to improve it, there are some things you can do to make the house and property harder to penetrate by those who would do harm or steal from you. Your home does not need to look like a high-security complex to be secure, and a few small changes can go a long way to securing your home.
Security Systems
The first step in securing the home is installing a home security system with sensors on the doors, windows, and other entry points. Each door and window needs to have a sensor on it, or the system will not be effective. Likewise, the doors and windows must be closed for the system to operate correctly, so leaving a window open at night is not possible, and most systems will not arm if you are leaving the home and forget that there is one open.
The basic installation of the system typically includes the system and the sensors, but additional features need to be added if you want them. Some companies offer a couple of motion sensors in the system installation as well, but if you want to start small and expand the system later, you can do that.
Security Cameras
To better monitor your entry points and the exterior of your home, you may want to consider adding some security cameras to your home security system. If you have the security company set the cameras up for you, they may offer monitoring service. A lot of companies provide the ability for you to check the cameras from your cell phone or a computer if you are away from home.
Placing your security cameras in areas that make them effective is critical. You should have a view of the front and rear door to the home, and at least one camera facing down your driveway and front walkway. These positions make it hard for someone to approach the house without being caught on video, and the camera that is capturing the driveway can help identify cars or get plate numbers of a vehicle that stops in front of your home.
Interior Motion Sensors
Adding some motion sensors to your home security system helps to capture any movement in the home if someone is able to get around the sensors on the doors or windows. The motion sensors should be added with the ability to arm the system with the sensors off so that you do not set the system off if you are home and have the security system armed.