When it comes to your new home, don’t neglect home security. Decorating and settling in is undoubtedly enjoyable, but with burglaries occurring every 30 seconds, it’s crucial to prioritize the safety of your home and loved ones. To help you focus on the fun stuff, UniHome presents 11 simple steps you should take right away to secure your new home and ensure peace of mind.
1. Set up a security system
Choose a security system that suits your needs, whether it’s a basic DIY system or one with professional monitoring and home automation features. Evaluate your home and neighborhood to determine the level of protection required. Consider factors like installation options, customer service, smart home capabilities, and associated costs.
2. Secure the doors
Inspect exterior doors, reinforce frames, add deadbolts and strike plates, and upgrade to smart locks. Protect against burglars by securing mail slots and reinforcing sliding glass doors with window bars or sensors.
Reinforce sliding glass doors
When it comes to sliding glass doors, which intruders often target, take the following steps to reinforce their security:
- Use a window bar or dowel: Place a sturdy window bar or dowel in the track of the sliding glass door to prevent it from being forced open.
- Install a door sensor or glass break sensor: These devices can detect tampering or breakage and trigger an alert, discouraging burglars from attempting unauthorized entry.
By implementing these measures, you can significantly enhance the security of your doors and provide greater protection for your home.
3. Lock the windows
According to theft expert Dr. Ben Stickle, windows are “a common entry point for criminals” and may be left shut but unlocked by the previous homeowner. Plus, manufacturer latches on windows aren’t always effective—and sometimes they’re downright flimsy. To enhance window security, follow these recommendations:
- Reinforce glass with window security film.
- Install window sensors or glass break sensors.
- Add window bars.
- Plant prickly bushes under first-floor windows (but be sure to keep them trimmed).
4. Light up the landscape
Ample outdoor lighting deters vandals and burglars. Place lights strategically around your front and back yards, pathways, and near the garage and other outdoor structures. Motion-activated lights, solar-powered lights, smart outlets, and smart light bulbs can further enhance the effectiveness of your outdoor security lighting.
5. Don’t forget the garage
n Malaysia, while not all properties have personal garages, if your home does have one, it can be an entry point targeted by criminals. Even if the entry point to your home is not a garage, securing it is important. Lock all doors to the garage, both interior and exterior. Keep the garage door opener inside the house to prevent theft, and be cautious when entering security codes. Upgrade to a smart garage door opener, cover windows, secure garage doors with extra locks, and consider using home automation features to prevent leaving the garage door open unintentionally. Installing a driveway alarm adds an extra layer of security.
6. Lock down your Wi-Fi network
cure your home wireless network to protect your personal and financial information. Enable encryption, rename and hide your home network, use a firewall, install antivirus and anti-malware protection, and create strong passwords. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) for enhanced internet connection security. Implement parental control software to ensure the online safety of children.
7. Eliminate hiding places
Trim trees and shrubs close to your home to eliminate hiding spots for burglars. Put away stools and ladders, lock gates and sheds, avoid leaving valuable items on display in the yard, and use security signs and stickers as deterrents. Implement additional security measures to burglar-proof your backyard.
8. Add security cameras
Security cameras act as both deterrents and valuable tools for capturing evidence. Choose security cameras with mobile app capabilities for real-time monitoring and storage options. Ensure the cameras are protected from hackers. Opt for cameras with features such as motion detection, night vision, Wi-Fi capability, two-way talk, and weatherproof casings for outdoor use.
9. Get a safe
Protect your valuables with an in-home safe that is fire-resistant, waterproof, and secure. Look for safes with redundant locks and select the appropriate size for your valuables. Decide whether you want a portable safe or one that can be anchored.
10. Use home automation
Home automation allows remote control of lights, door locks, security cameras, smoke alarms, and other safety devices to secure your new home . Utilize automation to schedule lights and simulate occupancy when away, communicate with visitors through a smart doorbell, receive instant video feeds for your driveway, and manage smoke or CO alarms from your smartphone
11. Prevent house fires
Make preventive measures to reduce the risk of house fires. Regularly inspect and test fire alarms and CO detectors, install new detectors where necessary, check fire extinguishers’ charge and expiration dates, and seek professional chimney inspection before using the fireplace. Develop a fire exit plan and consider fire escape ladders for second-story bedrooms.
Final word
Remember, securing your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by identifying the strategies that are most important to you and gradually implement the rest. Taking action early and being aware of potential security risks will help keep your home and loved ones safe.
For more details on securing your new house, visit our website and explore a wide range of ideas and expert tips.
