Easy Ways to Increase the Security of Your Home
While home security devices may be the most obvious way in which to protect your home from intruders, there are other improvements you can make and practices you can employ in order to keep criminals away.
First of all, make sure your doors are secure. Any loose doorknobs, hinges, or doorframes may be an invitation for a robbery. Secure these fixtures or purchase new ones. If necessary, purchase a new door - preferably steel, with windows that cannot be broken in order to unlock the door from the inside. A door with windows, however, can still contain a deadbolt that locks from the interior with a key (instead of a turn-dial), and still be secure.
A storm or screen door may do little to prevent a break-in. You may want to invest in a wrought-iron or metal scrollwork door. While someone who really wants in still might find a way to get past the metal door, they will be deterred by the potential time it would take to do so.
Window locks should be in working order. It may be desirable to install bars on lower-level windows. In addition, windows should have the proper interior coverings - blinds or curtains - so that potential burglars are unable to see what is inside the home. Burglars are less likely to break into a home if they don't know what valuables are contained within.
It's a tried-and-true practice, but leave a light or two on while you're gone. If it looks like someone is home, most potential intruders will stay away. In addition, a "Beware of Dog" sign will deter many criminals - even if you don't own a dog. The possibility of being bitten by an angry beast does not appeal to even those who would try to steal your valuables.
Keep money, jewelry, and other expensive items well-hidden or under lock-and-key in a safe. In the event of a break-in, you will suffer fewer damages than if your valuables were in plain site. Especially valuable items should be taken to a safety deposit box at a bank.
If you are worried about home security, there are many things you can do to make you and your home more secure. Using multiple thief-deterrent practices can increase safety and thwart break-ins before they start.
Copyright © 2006, Ian White Access 2000 Pty Ltd No part of this text may be reproduced in any form or for any purpose without the express permission of the author.
As Printed in Living France www.livingfrance.com
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