Keeping your home secure doesn’t have to break the bank. We sat down with Bec from Absolute Security who shared five low-cost, effective hacks to enhance your home’s security and give you peace of mind.
1. Add Motion Detection Lighting
One of the simplest and most effective ways to deter intruders is by installing motion detection lighting at the front and rear of your property. These lights can startle and expose anyone attempting to approach your property. You don’t even need an electrician for this upgrade—solar-powered options are available that you can easily install yourself. For example, the Arlec Solar Movement Activated Floodlight provides a convenient and eco-friendly solution to enhance your home’s exterior lighting.
2. Use Tamper-Proof Screws
Even the best locks can be rendered useless if a thief can simply remove the screws securing them. Replace standard screws with tamper-proof ones, which require special tools that most burglars don’t carry. This simple upgrade can significantly increase the difficulty of breaking into your home. Consider products like the Pinnacle 10g x 40mm Stainless Steel Security Screws for added security.
3. Pretend to Break into Your House
A fun yet practical way to identify security weaknesses is to simulate a break-in. Play a game with your kids: lock up the house and see if you can find a way to get in unnoticed. This exercise will help you discover vulnerable points in your home’s security, allowing you to address them before a real intruder finds them.
4. Store Ultra-Valuables in Obscure Places
Thieves are typically opportunistic, grabbing what they can find quickly. Storing your most valuable items in unconventional places can make them harder to find. For instance, instead of leaving car keys and other valuables in a bowl near the entry, hide them in a random place in your carport, like a box of nails (make sure to communicate this with everyone in the family!). This simple trick can make a big difference in safeguarding your belongings.
5. Make Friends with Your Neighbours
Building relationships with your neighbours can greatly enhance your home’s security. By getting to know each other, you create a community where unfamiliar faces stand out, making it harder for intruders to go unnoticed. Jane Jacobs, in her book “The Death and Life of Great American Cities,” argues that the presence of people watching the street naturally deters crime. Small towns and villages often experience lower crime rates because everyone knows each other. Start by taking a meal over to your neighbours or going for regular walks around your neighbourhood.
Bonus Tips
1. Have Someone Collect Your Mail When You’re Away
A pile of uncollected mail is a clear sign that no one is home. Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to collect your mail if you’re going to be away for an extended period. This simple step can help prevent potential burglars from targeting your home.
2. Keep Side Gates Locked with a Padlock
If you have side gates, make sure they are secured with a padlock. This extra layer of security can deter intruders from accessing your backyard or side entrances, which are often more vulnerable than the front door.
3. Use Wooden Dowels in Sliding Doors or Windows
Sliding glass doors and windows can be forced open, but placing a piece of wooden dowel in the track can prevent this. This inexpensive and easy-to-implement measure adds an additional layer of security to your home.
Improving your home’s security doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With these five simple and cost-effective hacks, you can make your home a safer place. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in deterring potential intruders and protecting your loved ones and valuables.
About The Author: Rebecca Keck
Rebecca Keck is one of the dedicated owners of Absolute Security, having taken over the family business with her husband after her father’s retirement. With a deep-rooted passion for the security industry, Rebecca brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her role. She is committed to continuing her father’s legacy by providing top-notch security solutions and ensuring the safety of her community. Under her leadership, Absolute Security has thrived, offering innovative and reliable security services to meet the evolving needs of their clients.