August 24, 2018
New to the world of home security? Here’s how to create your own home security system.
By: Sowmya Krishnamurthy
There’s nothing more important than peace of mind in your home. Whether you’re moving out on your own or a first-time home buyer, the idea of home security can be intimidating. There are so many products on the market, it’s hard to know where to start to feel truly secure. From smart locks to affordable surveillance cameras, you can create a personalized system that’s both functional and fits right into your home decor.
If you’re a DIY kind of person, here’s a checklist to make home security easy.
1. Make a Plan
The most important part of a home security system is to have a plan. Set simple rules that you — and other family members —can easily follow. For example, always lock the doors when you leave, and behind you when you get home, use an alarm system (even when you’re just out for a quick trip to the store), have emergency contact numbers readily available, etc.
2. Remove “Hidden” House Keys
Many people keep extra house keys under doormats, inside mailboxes and around the home. Instead, give those extra keys directly to your most trusted family and friends so they're able to access to your home in case of an emergency.
3. Do a Walkthrough
Sometimes safety vulnerabilities live in plain sight without you even realizing it. Make it a habit to do routine walkthroughs of your home. If you had to enter your home without a key, could you? Pay special attention to things like unsecured sliding doors, windows on the ground floor or with faulty locks, tree branches that lead to second-floor windows and doors that can’t withstand external force. Many police precincts, such as this one from San Diego, have great checklists available for you to conduct your own burglary prevention walkthrough.
