Secure Your Home: Home Security Systems

According to the FBI, homes without security systems are 2.7 times more likely to be targeted by a burglar. There are a number of options for the average homeowner to consider that can reduce the chances of a burglary. Read these tips and suggestions on how to secure your home to help reduce your chances of a break-in. The steps are quite simple but can provide peace of mind, additional security and perhaps save you from theft.

Home Security Systems

• Homes without a home security/alarm system have a significantly higher break-in rate, so invest in an alarm system to protect your home and use it. Make sure your house alarm is connected to the police and a central station to ensure someone will respond. Have a back-up cellular connection in case your phone service is disrupted.
• If moving into a house with an old alarm system, contact the provider to inquire about a system upgrade.
• Consider a security system equipped with motion detectors. Certain alarm systems allow your home to have separate zones so specific areas can always stay armed. In addition, a panic button can be installed for added protection.
• If you have an alarm system, make sure all your windows either have contacts on them or you have glass-break sensors in the rooms.
• A thief may try to dismantle your alarm system, so make sure the system's central panel is in a secure spot. In addition, since construction or wildlife can disrupt outside wiring, have your system tested annually.
• As a back-up alarm, a barking dog (even small dogs) will deter most burglars. The noise draws attention, which is the last thing burglars want.
• Adding reflective numbers outside on the front of your home will make it easy for police and ambulances to find your house in case of emergency.

Home Security Surveys

• Contact your local law enforcement agency for a free "walk through" of your property. The purpose is to identify all potential trouble spots and determine what steps can be implemented to improve the overall security of your property.
• Consider organizing a "block party" and have the police "sweep" your entire block. Sometimes off-duty police officers will do this kind of work for a nominal fee.

Hilary Basile is a writer for http://www.myguidesusa.com. The MyGuidesUSA.com network of sites is the ultimate guide to the USA. Find home improvement resources, including home security tips, at http://www.myguidesusa.com/homeimprovement.

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