4 home security tips you need to implement today

Home security measures are vital to feeling at ease in your own home. Gone are the days where you were able to just lock the door and leave – instead, homeowners are investing in security cameras, deadbolts and other essential tools to keep their home and belongings safe and secure.

Discouraging break-ins and keeping your investment, stuff and family safe should be everyone’s top priority. It doesn’t matter whether you’re in an area with a high crime rate or not, thieves are finding smarter ways to get into properties and it’s up to you to act smart. Here are security tips you need to implement today to help safeguard your home.

1. Change the way you hide the spare key.

We think we’re smart by leaving a spare key out for emergency situations and most times, it is a good idea. But where are you hiding it? If it’s under your door mat or that potted plant on your front porch, burglars will look there first and won’t even have to ‘break’ in. It’s surprisingly common how many people do hide their spare key in these locations, under an inconspicuous pair of shoes or in the meter box.

If this sounds like you – it’s time to change things up! Move that spare key to a more secure and less obvious location. Key safes are ideal and can be attached to your house and accessed with a unique pin code. You can even purchase regular everyday items that look like what they’re intended for, but are there to disguise a spare key. Sprinkler key holders are a classic example of this and will ensure thieves don’t find that easy way into your home.

2. Utilise alarm systems, cameras or motion detection lights.

Alarm systems are a well-utilised safety measure to deter thieves. You can set them up to notify local police immediately if there’s an attempted break too. Most times, the sound of an alarm system going off is enough to scare thieves off if they’re trying to get into your home. Security cameras add an extra level of security too and can be linked to alarm systems and motion detection lights.

Putting up security signs and stickers to inform potential intruders you have an alarm or camera system setup can be a good scare tactic too. Even if you don’t have anything set up, visible stickers on key entry points can help deter thieves. If you don’t have the funds to install a security camera, faking it can sometimes help – but don’t let this be the only security measure you have in your home!

3. Know who has access to your home.

Most of us have a few family members, tradespeople, babysitters, cleaners or friends who have or have had access to a spare key to the house. Over time it’s hard to keep track of who has access to your home – and whether you want these people to be able to or not. Especially if you have lived in your property for a long time, it can be worthwhile looking at getting the locks changed. This way, you can start fresh and only give trusted people a spare key.

If you have recently moved into a new house, it’s a smart idea to get the locks changed by your local locksmith. In situations like these, you don’t know who has access to your home, if past occupants have copied keys – anyone could be able to enter your home. You just don’t know, so it’s better to start fresh.

4. Take advantage of technology.

With technology continually advancing in leaps and bounds, it makes sense to tap into tools like smart home automation systems. These tools allow you to monitor your home and check in remotely from anywhere in the world. You can control security systems, set up motion detection lights on timers and trigger notifications to come to your phone or smart watch. Surveillance cameras can be checked whilst you’re away from your home and if you have smart locks installed in your home, every coming and going can be tracked.

Doors can be opened and locked through such tools and with Bluetooth technology. This can be beneficial when you need to grant access to tradesmen to the home when you’re not there too. Having smart locks and other devices like lights or thermostats connected to the automation system keeps everything in check and offers a better level of security.

Everyone has the right to feel comfortable and secure in their home. Investing in a level of security suitable for your needs and location is a crucial consideration.

For more ways to keep your home secure check out our guide to choosing the right door locks, keeping your home secure during renovations and security tips for moving house.