Even the most sophisticated and expensive home security systems aren’t very effective if you haven’t taken the basic steps necessary to keep unwanted visitors from entering your home. This means that it is essential that you start with your exterior doors and windows when you are creating a home security plan. It is common for people to think that just because they have a home security system installed that they do not have to worry about their doors and windows because an alarm will sound if anyone tries to get in. However, why give them that opportunity in the first place?
All exterior doors should be equipped with at least one deadbolt lock that has a minimum of a four-inch bolt. When this kind of a bolt is engaged, it is virtually impossible for the door to be kicked open. Even if a burglar is intent on getting the door open, it will take him a significant amount of time to do it. This time that he is wasting is time that allows the authorities to get closer. Many burglars will not take this risk. If they cannot get in with the first couple of kicks, they will move on.
It might be beneficial to consider installing a number of deadbolts on each exterior door. When you leave, lock every other one. This way, if someone has a key, he will lock the deadbolts that you left unlocked and open the ones you left locked. Again, this is simply slowing the burglar down and frustrating him to the point where he gives up on getting in. Even if he does figure out your code, he has wasted valuable time and the police are likely getting closer, particularly if your alarm has alerted your monitoring company that someone is trying to get in.
Next, you need to pay attention to your windows. Some homeowners think they can save money on their alarm system by not putting sensors on their windows. This is a mistake. Burglars know that many people who have a home security system installed neglect to secure the windows. They will simply shatter them or slide unlocked windows open and they are in. For this reason, be sure to place sensors on your windows, just as you do your doors, place dowel rods in the tracks of sliding windows and engage solid locks every time the windows are closed.
Home security systems are a great way to keep your family and your property safe, but you still have to pay attention to the basics or your system won’t be as effective as it should be. Secure your doors and windows and you will be well on your way toward protecting your home.
About the Author –
John is a shrewd consumer who writes about personal finance, home technology and home security topics like: burglar alarm Orlando FL and home security Akron.
By: John Cherry
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