Signs Your Home Needs Better Security

There Has Been an Increase in Crime in Your Area

The unfortunate circumstance of a rise in crime in a neighborhood is often unsettling, but usually an indicator that residents should not only be on the lookout, but also take certain extra precautions. Be sure you are locking your doors 24-hours a day, even during the daytime. Unfortunately, some homeowners may not realize it until it is too late that most home invasions occur during the daylight hours. Regardless if you work from home or are home often, keeping your doors locked is really important.

Another important thing you can do if there has been an increase in crime in your area is to switch up your routine. Some criminals will scope out homes to invade based on the habits of the family members who inhabit the home. They may observe a house for days or weeks at a time to get a feel for when a stay-at-home mom or other members leave during the daytime hours. Once a criminal or team of robbers get a feel for when a family may or may not be home, it makes it much easier for them to break-in. You can help avoid this by switching up the days and times, if possible, when you go to the gym, go grocery shopping, or run other errands. This is especially important if you are the only one home during the day and it may be obvious when you are the only one home and when you leave.

Broken Locks Have Been Left Unattended

One of the worst scenarios you could find yourself in would be to find out that a backdoor with a broken lock that you neglected to fix ended up being an entry point for a home invasion. This is why it is so important to fix broken or damaged locks immediately. Most locksmiths are open 24-hours a day for this reason. Leaving a lock broken may potentially lead to an intrusion, since criminals may check for unlocked doors when committing home robberies.

Your Locks are Outdated or Worn

Worn or older locks may be easier to break. Even if you have deadbolt locks or feel your locks are fairly secure, do not be deceived. The lifespan of home locks, even with proper Maintenance may be only a few years. You want to make sure any older locks are replaced as soon as possible. Maintenance for home locks can also be helpful to ensure there are no vulnerable points on your home locks that may make it easier for someone to break in.

You are Gone Often or Take Frequent Vacations

Be sure to take precautions to protect your home if you are away frequently or travel a lot. A build-up of newspapers, packages, or mail may indicate to criminals that you are away from home and thus, your home is left unattended. Hiring a house sitter or enlisting the help of a neighbor to gather your mail and newspapers is a good way to combat the potential that a criminal may notice you are away from home and try to break-in.

There are Unsecured Entry Points

Do not neglect windows, garage doors, and other entry points in your home when it comes to security. Window locks are a simple and easy way to make sure a window does not allow access for a robber to come into your home. You can install window locks yourself or have a professional help you. Garage door locks are also easy to install and affordable, depending on the model and type of lock you purchase. Also, be sure any other access points in your garage are secure, especially if you own a garage that is attached to your home.

Hire a Professional for an Inspection

If you are unsure if there are unsecured entry points into your home or need help securing your home, you should call a locksmith. Locksmithing inspections for the purposes of increasing home security are common. When you work one-on-one with a locksmith, you will be able to address concerns specific to your home. You will receive the advice you need to handle any problems right away, as well as the expert assistance on-hand to make any necessary lock repairs or upgrades. Some locksmiths even offer inspections and consultations to evaluate home locksmithing and security needs.

Work with an Expert to Upgrade Your Home Security!

Other issues surrounding home security may be relevant to your situation. If you are still concerned or have questions pertaining to your security needs, contact a local locksmith in your area. They will have the best ideas and suggestions for how to address your home security needs specifically. You are never alone when it comes to making sure your home is secure and your family is safe. Find a locksmith in your area that is certified and able to address your home lock and key needs professionally and promptly.