DIY: How to Make Your Home Secure from Burglary and Break-In ...

by Danny Lipford

By following these simple DIY home security suggestions, you can greatly reduce the chance that your home will be subject to burglary or break-in while you are at home or away.

Home Security Tips Do not hide a key outside your home. Install motion sensor flood lights around the outside of your home. Trim overgrown shrubs and trees that are near windows and doors. Install sturdy locks on windows. Keep windows closed and locked when you’re away from home.

Add a track lock to sliding glass doors, or place a pipe or board in the track to prevent the door from being forced open. Install quality deadbolts on all the exterior doors of your home. Programmable combination keypad locks, such as Smart Code Locks from Kwikset are available that allow access without a key. Reinforce deadbolt strike plates and door jamb on exterior doors using 3” long screws and heavy duty metal reinforcement plates. Install a viewer (peephole) in your front door, or a video monitoring system. Make sure garage doors lock securely. Keep sheds, boats, and equipment stored in your yard under lock and key. Install a quality safe that is bolted to the wall or floor. Do not open your door to someone you don’t know. Install a home alarm system. Inexpensive DIY models that use wireless technology are available, as well as professionally installed systems that require a monthly fee. Security Tips When Away from Home

Have a neighbor pick up your newspapers and mail, or call or go online to stop delivery. Remember to set the alarm system before you leave home. Leave a radio playing while away. Use timers to turn lamp lamps on and off. Check to see that all windows and doors are securely locked. Close all blinds or drapes. Do not leave a message on your answering machine message...

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