How To Enhance Your Home Security in the Summer
As the summer season approaches, we eagerly anticipate longer days, warmer weather, and much-needed relaxation.
However, with many families going on vacations or spending more time outdoors, it’s essential to be vigilant about home security. In fact, it’s said that burglaries can increase by around 10% during the summer, and with homes left empty it’s easy to see why.
Fortunately, there are things you can do to keep your property safe. And in this article, we’re going to explore some practical ways to keep your home secure during the hot season.
Always Remember Doors and Windows
On particularly hot days you’ll likely leave doors and windows open. This is good for cooling down, ventilation and fresh air, but just make sure that if you leave your home, you remember to shut all doors and windows. Even if you’re only nipping out for a short time.
It’s also worth making sure all your doors and windows lock properly and that there are no weaknesses or damage that can be exploited.
An expert can assess your home’s security and advise of any weakness, repairs or upgrades that you could invest in. Just search locksmiths near me to find a local professional.
Home Security Upgrades
If you are particularly worried about your home’s security, it’s worth looking into upgrades such as smart home technology.
Recommended devices include doorbell cameras, outdoor security cameras, security alarms and smart door handles and locks. With smart locks, you can control and monitor access remotely from your phone. The app for the lock may keep a history log too, so you can see when and perhaps even who used it.
Use Lighting to Put Off Intruders
To keep your home protected at night time, installing outdoor motion detecting lights can help to deter potential intruders. As can leaving lights on indoors when you are away. Again, smart home features can help here, as you can leave your lights on a timer which will save you from using excess electricity.
Basically, you’ll want to make it less obvious that your home is unoccupied, so that you can enjoy your holiday away or night out in peace.
Don’t Forget The Garage
The garage is another vulnerable entry point that homeowners often overlook. Always keep the garage door closed and locked, even when you are home. Consider using a smart garage door opener, which allows you to check and control the garage door remotely.
Mow The Grass, Especially Before You Go Away
An unkempt back or front yard can be a signal to burglars that the homeowners are away, making your property an easy target.
Keep your garden well-maintained, trim bushes and shrubs near windows, and avoid leaving tools or ladders outside that could aid intruders in accessing upper floors.
Don’t Advertise on Social Media
While it’s tempting to share vacation plans and photos on social media, be cautious about what you post. Broadcasting that you’re away from home for an extended period can attract unwanted attention from potential burglars. Save the vacation posts for when you return home if you want to maintain a higher level of security.
Don’t Leave Items Out
Ensure that valuable items, such as jewellery, important documents, and electronics are stored securely. You may want to invest in a home safe, which will provide an extra layer of protection for your most valuable belongings, and add an extra barrier for burglars to overcome.
Make sure that any valuable items cannot be seen on display through your window either. Shut the curtains if you can, and if you’re not getting a safe, put your items away in drawers, cupboards, or under the bed.
If you’ve recently bought something expensive, such as a new smart TV, don’t leave the packaging on display in your bins for anyone to see either. Dispose of it discreetly.
Ask A Neighbour For Help
It helps to get along with your neighbours. Ask a trusted neighbour if they can keep an eye on your property when you’re away and text you or call the police if they notice any suspicious activity. Make sure you offer to do the same for them too.
Final Thoughts
By following these tips, you can make sure that your summer is a relaxing one. And don’t forget, you can always seek advice from experts such as locksmiths, they get asked for help with these matters a lot.
