Rising crime rates across the country have many homeowners concerned about the safety of their home and family. Most crimes occur due to poor or no security measures that are like a welcome sign to any nearby or passing burglars or vandals. Some homeowners can't afford expensive home security systems or simply can’t find the budget to invest in it at the moment.
However, there are many low-cost ways to make your home safer. Read on for our top 10 affordable home security measures. In reality, you really can't afford not to.
“There is nothing more important than a good, safe, secure home." – Rosalynn Carter
Upgrade to Better Locks on Doors & Windows
One of the most effective ways to improve home security is to upgrade to better locks on all doors and windows. Pay special attention to doors that lead outside.
This is relatively inexpensive, and low-cost door and window locks can be quickly installed by a local handyman that can also ensure that the locks are top-quality and fit each door or window.
Remember: Never leave a spare house key in areas thieves will know where to look.
Put Lights, Radio & TV on Timers
A close second affordable home security idea is to put lights, radio and TV on timers. These digital timers are not expensive, and this home security solution makes it look like someone is home even if everyone is away. These digital timers can be programmed to turn the items on and off on a random schedule that will be more likely to fool anyone casing out your home.
Rethink Your Landscaping to Eliminate Hiding Areas
Although lots of trees provide cool shade in the summertime, large bushes, heavy vegetation and poor lighting can turn those relaxing spots in your yard into excellent hiding places for unscrupulous individuals.
Prune back and trim tree branches, tall shrubs and bushes and install better outdoor lighting or motion sensors to eliminate these common thief hiding areas.
Safeguard Your Garage or Outdoor Sheds
When it comes to safeguarding your home, people usually only worry about their main house and forget about the rest. It is also important to safeguard your garage and any outdoor sheds or buildings.
An open garage can attract thieves looking to steal valuable cars, recreation vehicles and expensive tools that they can sell to pawn shops or to other people.
Invest in Good Blinds or Shades
Top security experts often recommend homeowners to install good window and door blinds or shades. This safety measure is simple, relatively inexpensive and can be incredibly effective in keeping outside voyeurs and neighborhood peeping Toms from seeing inside your interior living spaces.
These window treatments come in many designs, sizes and prices. Some allow natural light to filter inside while still blocking anyone trying to see in through windows or doors. This is listed as a top safety measure to improve home security instantly.
Keep Car Doors Locked & Remove Valuables
Keep any cars on your property locked at all times. Remove any visible valuables to deter petty thieves looking for an easy mark.
Install Motion Sensors, Low-Cost Cameras & Alarm Systems
Many homeowners delay installing a home alarm security system because they expect these systems to cost too much. The good news is that many home alarm systems and video surveillance cameras are quite affordable, and there are plenty of options to choose from.
Other popular low-cost security items include motion sensors and solar outdoor lights that use very little energy to operate.
Join or Start a Neighborhood Watch Group
This affordable home security method is often overlooked. Consider joining or starting a neighborhood watch group to combine forces with other homeowners in the area to combat neighborhood crime.
Don't Leave Ladders or Tools Outside
Many homeowners who are handy with household projects or chores have a bad habit of leaving their garage door open when doing any of these tasks. This gives thieves a birds-eye view of what valuables are stored inside.
Never leave ladders or tools outside especially after dark. If you don't have the space to store these in the garage or inside the house, consider going for a shed installation and keep it locked when you’re not using it.
Be Cautious About Social Media Posts When Away
These are just a few ideas on how homeowners can quickly improve home security without spending much time, effort or money in the process. One last measure involves being extra cautious about posting your family's whereabouts on social media sites. These website platforms do attract individuals looking for a way to ensure their success in robbing or vandalizing someone's property knowing that nobody is home.
The best solution to have a safe home is to hire home security companies that can help ensure that your property, family members and belongings stay safe and protected.
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