Having a secure home isn’t all due to a high-end security system. Although it helps, there are many simple, inexpensive ways to protect your central Florida home. In this blog, we are going to go over six of them.
Keep Doors and Windows Locked
This seems like a no-brainer for some, but locking your doors and windows is something that can be easily forgotten, and burglars take advantage of that. Most burglaries happen between 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., and they are typically completed within 8-10 minutes. Why do most burglaries occur during the daytime? Because that’s when most people are gone. Now, with the pandemic and more people working from home, this has changed, but we love the saying, “better safe than sorry.” Thieves are looking for easy-access properties that are usually surrounded by a lot of foliage. Lock your doors and windows whenever they’re not in use, even when you’re at home.
Update Your Locks
There are some old houses here in Central Florida and chances are some of the locks protecting that house have not been replaced in a long time. If you do have an older house, it is vital that you ask yourself these questions:
- Could there be extra keys floating around with strangers?
- Are any of the exterior locks easy to pick, jimmy, or bump open?
- Are these the original locks of the house?
Answering yes to any of these questions indicates that you should consider replacing your locks with a more modern, updated version to keep you and your family safe.
Reinforce Doors, Windows, and Hardware
Okay, so your locks are solid, but what if your doors, windows, or hardware are weak and flimsy? Inspect all potential entry points, especially those on the first floor if you have a multiple-story home, and replace, repair, or reinforce them as needed.
- Consider replacing exterior doors that are thin, hollow-core, or broken.
- Door hardware – ensure that the strike plate (the metal piece on the door jamb where the lock’s bolt enters) is properly installed with screws that are at least ¾ inches long. This measure ensures that the bolt can’t easily be forced out of the door jamb.
- For sliding doors, add an auxiliary foot lock or place a dowel in the tracks to physically stop the door from forcibly sliding open.
- Check your window locks and make sure you can’t open them, even when it's in the lock position.
Install Motion-Sensing Lights Inside and Outside
Getting motion-sensing lights seems like it would be a “fancy” upgrade, but it is actually relatively inexpensive to turn regular lights into motion sensor lights by switching to motion-sensing light bulbs. You can also screw a motion detection adapter between a standard bulb and socket. Installing these by itself can deter any potential burglars the moment they set foot on your property.
Be Smart About Where You Put Your Spare Key
Where is the first place you think of putting a spare key? Is it under the doormat or a flowerpot by the front door? Putting your spare key in predictable places like the examples above makes it too easy for potential burglars to break in. Try other options like putting your key in a lockbox and putting the box somewhere else. Some boxes can be relatively expensive but are worth the investment.
Keep Your Valuables Out of Sight
Don’t be flashy with your expensive items or prized possessions. Use window treatments like curtains or blinds to stop people from scoping out your home. Similarly, put away high-value items when you’re not using them. Don’t leave electronics, jewelry, cash, or significant personal documents in plain sight. Keep your most valuable goods and records in a household safe. If you have kids, ensure that any toys, bikes, and other valuables are brought inside.
Contact Security Dzign
Security Dzign is dedicated to providing homeowners in the Central Florida area with the ease of feeling safe in your own home. We specialize in a wide variety of security services and want to ensure our community is a safe one. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to our friendly professionals!
