When you move into a new home, you want to do everything possible to secure it. After all, aside from your children, if you have any, your home may be the biggest investment of your life. Also, your home should be your safe place. It is a shelter against the wind, rain, and snow, and a haven from the bustle of the outside world.
Your home is susceptible to the outside world, though. Intruders are unfortunately present in all neighborhoods, and you can never predict what nature might do. Luckily, once you purchase a new home, you can take steps to secure it so it can really be your safe haven. In addition to installing a top-of-the-line home security system, you can meet the neighbors to strengthen your ties and forge a stronger front against intruders in your neighborhood.
Home Security System
A home security system is the first line of defense. It can deter potential intruders, and set off alarms if someone actually dares to try to enter. Look for some of the following characteristics.
- Cellular monitoring, which uses cellular reception and not your home phone line to communicate with the surveillance location.
- 24/7 monitoring from a centralized location to call the police or fire department for you if needed.
- Wireless sensors, which can make setup easier and prevents intruders from cutting the wires and disabling the system.
- The possibility of remote monitoring, such as through smartphone apps, so you can control lights and the thermostat when you are at work or on vacation.
When selecting a company to provide your home security system, consider both features and price. One more aspect to watch for is whether your new neighbors use the same company. In general, it is good to use a company that is already familiar with the patterns in your neighborhood. Also, you can get good recommendations from your neighbors.
Prepare for Environmental Threats
You also want to protect your home against natural and manmade disasters. Install smoke detectors in every room in case of fire. In addition, become familiar with the possible toxic gasses that could be in your area. Radon, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide sensors can alert you to these invisible, odorless, and potentially fatal gasses.
Meet the Neighbors
Joining the community includes meeting the neighbors. They can help you keep an eye on your home. More formally, you can consider joining the neighborhood watch program or starting one if one is not already in place. You can take turns being on duty to prevent crime.
Landscaping That Goes Beyond Aesthetics
You will probably need to do a little bit of landscaping to make your new home’s looks suit your tastes more. For security reasons, think about getting rid of bushy plants and keeping everything neat so it is difficult to hide. As you trim back the bushes and overhanging branches on your property, consider the lighting. Install security lights to get rid of any shadowy locations where a person could hide.
Moving into a new home is a big event, and the packing, carrying, and unpacking can be draining. You may not feel like you have much extra energy, but your move-in really is not complete until you make your home safe. Installing a home security system and building a good rapport with your new neighbors can go a long way toward making your home safe.