Family home security – do I need it?
A lot of us would say that our family is what we value the most. We work hard so that we would be able to give them a fulfilling and comfortable life. Part of ensuring this happiness is, of course, providing them with a healthy and safe environment.
It is undeniable that we live in a dangerous world. You think that your home could be your family’s safe haven, but are you sure enough? In Australia alone, about 200,000 burglaries are committed every year. It is also estimated by the Australian Institute of Criminology that about 20% of these homes will be broken into more than once.
So, how can we keep our loved ones secure in our home? Luckily for you, there are many ways you can protect your family against intruders. Take a look at the essential tips we’ve prepared to help you prepare for this unwanted and unexpected circumstance.
Install a reliable home security system
One of the best options when it comes to increasing your home security is by installing a home alarm system. You will also be surprised that it offers benefits beyond protection against intruders. Aside from alerting you when suspicious activities occur around your property, it also offers different lifestyle benefits.
In the event of a break-in, you have to know how to respond accordingly. In scenarios like this, the first minute is very crucial and how you react determines how you can save yourself and your family. Of course, burglaries are not announced in advance. It goes without saying that it is difficult to say how you would be able to respond to such a situation.
- Home alarm systems
In unexpected situations like burglaries, one of the best ways you can secure your family is by having an alarm system installed. When somebody attempts to break into your home, the alarm will be triggered and you will hear startling noises. In this way, you will have enough time to move to a safer place and call for help. It is also worth noting that you can set up an alarm system to automatically contact authorities in the event of a burglary.
Another thing you have to keep in mind is that thieves observe your home before they even attempt to break into it. If they become aware that you have an alarm system installed, they would probably cut the power lines to disable your security system. Our advice is to opt for a wireless home security system. Backup power sources of wired security systems tend to run out fast. On the other hand, wireless security systems are mainly powered by batteries. So, even when burglars cut your power lines, your alarm system will still function properly.
- CCTV cameras
For extra eyes to watch over your house while you sleep soundly at night and while you’re at work during the day, it would be best to install surveillance or vivint doorbell cameras. You can use it so you can also have a view of every part of your house, including your backyard and your lawn. In the event of a burglary, you can use the video recordings as visual documentation and evidence in legal proceedings later on.
Our tip is to find surveillance cameras that can be controlled online or using a mobile device. In this way, you can still remotely monitor your home while you’re at work or on a vacation. If the surveillance cameras detect any suspicious activities, it will be sent immediately to your online account or to your phone.
- Motion Sensors
You can also deter burglary attempts by installing motion detectors around your property. Place them on your doors and windows so that when burglars come near them, you will hear startling noises. There are also motion sensors with lights that turn on whenever people walk near them. This is useful especially since thieves do not like committing crimes in a well-lit area.
However, you have to remember to find a motion detector with customisable range and sensitivity. In this way, the sensors won’t be activated when animals come near them.
Get Strong Security Doors and Security Screens
Having strong security doors and screens is also a good investment for the peace of mind of your family. Keep in mind that in the event of a burglary attempt, your door is your first line of defence. So, it would only be reasonable to ale sure that it is secure and it can hold against burglary attempts. Take a look at some of the reasons why you should invest on one:
- Increase your Home Security
Ordinary doors pale in comparison to the level of protection that security doors can give. The latter is stronger and designed with additional security features. Having one installed over your main door adds another layer of protection against forced entries. Remember to look for one that has passed tests for impacts, knife shear and anti-jemmy.
- Deter Burglary Attempts
Just the mere presence of a security door on your main entry or security screens on your windows can discourage burglary attempts. When thieves see that you have them installed, they would simply walk away and think that their efforts would only be wasted on your house. Since security doors and screens are built to be strong, they would have to use sophisticated equipment to be able to forcibly open one.
- Save on Electricity Costs
During hot days in summer, we tend to turn on the air conditioner for longer amounts of time. To save on electricity costs, we open our doors and windows to let fresh air in. However, doing so can be a security risk.
On the other hand, you can still let fresh air in and keep your house secured when you have security doors and security screens. Simply lock your security door and you can freely open your main entry door without worrying about your safety.
Automatic Security Gates and Garage Doors
For bigger properties, an automatic security gate is an ideal option for protecting the house. When you have a manual gate, you would have to get off your car just to open it. In some cases, burglars can intercept and either force you to bring them inside your home or steal your vehicle. In contrast, with an automatic security gate, you would not have to get off your car. To open it, you simply have to press the passcode on the dial keypad or use a remote controller. People who have knowledge of the access code are the only ones who can open your gate.
The same principle applies to garage doors. You can make your driving experience a little more pleasant when you don’t have to get off your car just to open your garage door. Moreover, the only people who can open your garage door are the ones who have the remote controller.
Author BIO
Camille Montenegro is a writer and infopreneur. Her long experience has a blogger made her an expert on different niches like home security. As a blogger, she believes in quality content and backs up all of her posts with relevant research information.