If you have a security system, there are some common mistakes that can make your home an easy target for thieves. Review the following tips and make sure you do not commit any of the errors described. And if so, for your own safety and for the safety of your home, correct them immediately.
Common home safety errors
- Hide the key
Many homeowners, fearful of losing their keys, choose to hide a key somewhere on the property. They think they are being discreet by hiding the key under a rock, under a mat, in a pot, or above the door. The thieves know absolutely all the places where the keys are commonly hidden. Under no circumstances should you leave the key to your home where they can be found. If you frequently lose your keys or the lock brakes, consider purchasing a fingerprint lock or keyboard access control.
- Broken Locks
Some homeowners do not change the broken locks right away and leave work for tomorrow (or whenever they feel like it). It is important, however, to ensure that all doors and windows have strong locks and are in good condition. Do not think that because a window is on a second or third floor a thief cannot find a way to reach it.
- Alarms against thieves that do not turn on
A security system is only useful when it is updated and active. You should test the alarm regularly and check that there are no faults or updates for the software. And do not forget to activate the alarm when leaving the house, even if you are only thinking about doing a message. A single thief can plunder his house in just a few minutes.
- Plants without pruning
Although you will like the idea of privacy, ultimately, your home will be safer if the neighbors can see the front and backyard. Thieves love to hide behind shrubs and bushes, do not give them that opportunity. Keep the foliage cut, especially around the house, and make sure all outdoor lights are in good condition (it is even better to install motion or heat sensors that activate the lights).
- Open sheds
If you have a shed, be sure to keep it locked at all times, otherwise it is offering thieves free use of all of their tools that can certainly be of help to enter your home. Also, be sure not to leave a ladder in the garden. Someone could use it to access the windows on the second floor.
- Keys in the car
It’s bad enough if you leave your car open (even in the garage), but never leave a copy of the house keys in the car. If you do, a thief who has access to your car will also have access to your home.