When dealing with a home security system, you want to know as much as you can. This is not a decision where you approach things lightly and just take what you get. You want to know that you have the best system and service in place. Keep your family protected by reading the rest of this article.
When getting a home security system, you need to consider if there has been one previously installed. If this is the case, you can actually have a cheaper or easier installation by choosing to go with what was done before. Remember that this can be a wired or wireless installation.
When choosing a security company, it is best if you find a good one that has a local office in your area. This will mean that any incidents will be handled expediently, and it also makes for much better customer service in general. Look to see what is available in your area.
Your faithful dog makes a great hiding spot for a spare key. This is only true if yours in an outdoor dog, or your house is equipped with a doggie door. Simply attach a spare key to your dog's collar (in a secure and non-visible place, of course) so that you'll be able to retrieve it if you need it.
Really take an inventory of what people can see through your windows. If you can obviously see expensive technology like flat screen TVs and pricey desktops, then you are inviting trouble. Instead, hide that tech and expensive furnishings out of view. Your home will be a lot less attractive to potential thieves.
You should never open your door to someone you do not know. Nowadays, people invent many stories of why they should come in. For instance, they may say they need to call a mechanic or the police. However, their true intent is to rob you. Create a rule where you only allow those you've invited to your home inside.
Be sure that your home security system has a panic button as well. The best of intruders sometimes have ways of getting into your home, even if you have the best system in place. Having a panic button in your bedroom is your best bet; authorities will be notified and will be at your house quickly.
Make sure you always do your research before hiring a company to install your home security system. Find company reviews on the Internet and make sure they are in good standing with the Chamber of Commerce and Better Business Bureau. You are hiring this company to furnish your home with a security system, and you want to make sure that you can trust the company your dealing with.
Be outgoing. Speak with your neighbors and friends in the area. Agree to watch each other's homes while you are away. Pay attention to gossip. This might provide you with some valuable information, at times related to security, including information about potential strangers who you might not want near your home.
Install timers on your indoor lights. If you are planning on being away from home after dark, timers can make your home look occupied. This is especially useful if you are planning a vacation or other extended stay away from home. Make sure the timer is set differently in each room, as all the lights turning on at once does not look natural.
Check the batteries of your smoke detector each and every week to determine if they are running low. If your smoke detector is not on, it will not pick up the smoke of the fire, which can lead to a disaster. Use quality batteries that last a very long time on your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Don't hide your spare house key in an obvious place outside. The days of safely hiding the spare key under the doormat are long gone. Placing your key in an obvious area like this now may help you if you get locked out, but it could also be an invitation for a thief to enter your home. It's best to avoid hiding spare keys on your property. You should either keep a spare key with a trusted neighbor or get a fingerprint or keypad door lock.
Replace rotted wood that surrounds your door frame. Anybody wanting to break into your house can just pry off rotted wood and get inside. Replace rotting wood with fresh wood to improve your home's security.
Every bit of wiring for your alarm system needs to be well hidden or else it will be easy to cut. When installing a system yourself, this is important to keep in mind. Tuck it away within walls so that no one can get at it to shut the system down.
Keep burglars on the outside of your garage by making sure nobody can actually see inside the garage. If your garage door has windows, make sure they have a frosted coating. This is easy to find at any major hardware store, and installation is a breeze. It's also a good idea to avoid leaving your garage door open for any longer than absolutely necessary, even if you're at home.
Ask if your home security system comes with a warranty. If it does not, ask if there are options to purchase an additional warranty. Repairing home security systems can be costly, and you do not want that cost to fall on you. A warranty can help to protect you from unexpected costs while keeping your equipment running perfectly.
While posting photos of yourself on vacation to Twitter or Facebook may be nice, it is also an open invitation to crooks asking them to break into your home - after all, you're not there! Share your photos once you get back instead to ensure no one knows your house is vacant.
Hopefully, you now feel like you are in command of your home security. It is very important that you remember the tips that have been given to you so that you can make the most of your efforts. With the right knowledge, you are now ready to make sure your family is safe for years to come.
Orignal From: Home Security Tips You Really Need To Know
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