When it comes to securing your house, you have probably already installed a home security system, replaced your flimsy door locks with 1-inch deadbolts and installed motion-activated security lighting around your property. You might even be congratulating yourself on making your home and family safer by making these simple adjustments. However, before you get too comfortable, ask yourself if you have secured the most vulnerable part of your house: your windows.
That’s right. Most burglars do not enter through doors or even the garage, because they know that these locations are the first places homeowners upgrade when it comes to home security. Instead, they target the windows because homeowners often neglect to secure these extremely fragile barriers. Fortunately, there are some simple actions you can take to make sure your windows don’t provide instance access to your home.
First, install and use window locks. Most windows on the market today come with excellent locking mechanisms, but they won’t do you any good if you don’t use them. Your windows should be locked anytime you lock your doors. This is basic security, but it is critical in keeping would-be burglars out of your home.
Shutter your upper-floor windows. These windows are often the most neglected because homeowners have a tendency to think that because they are high off the ground, they do not pose a security threat. However, these windows can be accessed from balconies, canopies and even the roof. Shutters offer excellent security because they can be locked from the inside, but are still attractive on the outside. You can also choose to place bars over your windows, but even though they are cheaper, they can detract from the aesthetics of your home.
Place surveillance cameras over your windows. Not only do these provide a powerful deterrent to burglars, but they will provide you with a way to identify a perpetrator if he decides to take the risk of breaking into windows that are constantly monitored. If you would rather people not know you have cameras watching the windows, you can hide them in lights, birdhouses and other exterior structures where they will be less noticeable.
Hang and use curtains. You might not even think that curtains are security items, but in actuality, they are one of the most effective ways of securing your home. Many times, burglars break into houses on impulse when they look inside the windows and see an item they want to take. Curtains prevent home security system so even if you can’t afford a home security system, you can still make your home more secure by hanging and closing curtains.
When it comes to home security, be sure to consider your windows in addition to all other vulnerabilities in and around your house. You can’t afford to forget any one entry point because criminals will take advantage of your lapse in attention. Windows are wonderful ports through which you can view the outdoors without leaving your home. However, they can also be security risks if you aren’t proactive in making them secure.
About the Author –
John is a shrewd consumer who writes about personal finance, home technology and home security topics like: Denver home monitoring and security systems.
By: John Cherry
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