Do home security systems interest you? A lot of people buy one and don’t take the time to think if they actually need one. Simple things, like keeping your doors and windows locked, can make a bigger difference than the system.

Spare Key

Your faithful dog makes a great hiding spot for a spare key. This will only be ideal if you have a dog door or an outdoor dog. Latch the key on his collar and voila–you have a spare key available!

Only provide your house cleaner with a key if you trust him or her implicitly. If they need the keys and plan on being in there for more than an hour, try to ensure that they are honest, hardworking, and reputable. Check their references fully. If your cleaning person comes from a company, check with the BBB.

Is your dog outside when you are away? If so, you can use your dog to hide your spare key. Stash the key on the pup’s collar to keep it out of sight. If your dog doesn’t like strangers, it’s even better.

When looking to buy a security system, shop around. Wild variations in pricing can exist for similar security products. Try to get two or three quotes before making a decision.

Turn the ringers off on all your phones if you will be away for a prolonged period of time. A home phone that rings and rings is a good way for a potential thief to know if anyone is home.

Don’t overlook your garage as a potential access point for thieves. Many people worry about burglars getting into their attached garage and then entering their home, but there is a fix. Use a C-clamp to secure the door if it’s off track.

Listen to your intuition as to whether your system is being installed by a trustworthy home security company. This is doubly true when you feel unease about the installers. Ask for someone else to come out or switch companies. The point of that system is to feel safer after all.

Keep your most valuable possessions inside your walls. No need to damage your walls. There are lots of places around the home that have pre-cut areas that you can use. For example, place jewelry in an unused electrical outlet.

You should not hide your spare key under your mat or inside a plant box. While it can help you if you’re locked out, you could be letting intruders inside your home. For obvious reasons, experienced burglars know every possible hiding spot. Rather, give the key to a neighbor to hold.

A good home security system monitors all entry points to your home. It should protect the windows too. Be certain they are also alarmed and monitored. This helps ensure your family stays safe.

If you buy expensive electronics or appliances, throw the packages away the day that your trash pickup occurs. If you set these boxes out with the trash, thieves will know you have expensive items in your house.

Were you aware of how valuable your house wires are? People often don’t think about this until they have it stolen from their home. It does not take much time to strip off the expensive copper wires from the exterior of your house. Be sure that you keep all your wiring hidden and make it hard to access.

You might need a security system. It may be, however, that you simply need to start doing a few things differently around your house. Be certain to do your research so that you make the very best choice.