Easy way to make your home safer
Easy way to make your home safer
Theft is often a crime of opportunity. You might accidently leave a window open before heading out, or neglect to ask for a reference from a tradie you've just hired. These things may seem minor, but they could be seen as an open invitation by a potential burglar.
The good news is that there are some simple things you can do to improve your home security.
- Get a dog (or at least get to know your neighbours)
If you've ever wanted an excuse to adopt a furry friend, this home security idea could be for you. Dogs are likely to be wary of strangers and bark at them if they approach or enter your property. This may alert you or your neighbours.
If having a dog isn't practical, ensuring you have a good relationship with your neighbours can be similarly helpful. They can keep a watch on things if you're away, in addition to watering your plants and making your home appear lived in. And, of course, you'll be ready to do the same for them should the need arise.
- Consider using smart home tech
One way to keep an eye on your home, without being in it, is with a smart home alarm system. Entry level models come equipped with alarms, cameras and sensors that connect via wireless internet to send alerts to your smartphone if anything's amiss.
- Lock your doors and windows
Locking your doors and windows when you go out may seem like home security 101, but you'd be surprised by how often burglaries occur because someone just plain forgot. Remembering to check and lock points of entry, every time you leave home, could go a long way to preventing theft.
- Be aware of who you let into your house
If you regularly have people coming in and out of your home, such as cleaners or tradespeople, it's important to establish early on whether you can trust them. After all, they'll be working amongst your most prized possessions. Ask your family and friends to see if they can recommend someone for the job or ask for references when hiring.
- Maintain your home