Decorating your home is more fun than just setting up different security measures. Studies show that burglars strike every 21 seconds. Thus, home security ought to be your top priority. The following are some of the simple things you can do to secure your home immediately.
Secure the Doors
At no time you should help a burglar to stroll through your front door. Unfortunately, over 30% of them do. Start by inspecting all the exterior doors to ensure the door frames are quite strong and the hinges are protected. Some of the reinforcements you can do include installing a deadbolt, upgrading to smart locks, and adding a strike plate. You should note that intruders like sliding doors. Thus, you should ensure yours are protected.
Lock the Windows
Windows and doors are common entry points for the burglars. However, manufacturer latches on the windows are not always effective. Sometimes, they can be downright flimsy. If you do not like the appearance of window latches, you should beef up the security with the key-operated levers or locks. However, you do not have to stop there. You can help make the windows burglar proof by reinforcing glass, adding window bars, and installing glass or window break sensors.
Light Up the Landscape
Burglars, vandals, and other criminals do not like being in the spotlight. You can keep bad folks at bay with outdoor lighting. You can place the lights around the back and front yards, along pathways, and near the garage or outdoor structures. Other than making intruders skittish, you also reduce your risk of a stumble on the way. You can make outdoor security lights more effective by using solar-powered lights to save energy or motion-activated lights.
Do Not Forget the Garage
It is unfortunate that the garage is used as an entry point by criminals to get into homes. Also, if they cannot access your home, there is a chance that there are many good things stored in the garage. Ensure you look at all the garage doors: both exterior and interior. If you use the security code to open the garage, ensure you keep it a secret and do not enter it in the front of neighbors, delivery people, or anyone else.
Another effective way is to upgrade to a smart garage door opener. The garage doors can be secured with extra locks or zip ties. Always cover the windows to hide your stuff inside.