Your home is a place where you and your loved ones should feel safe and secure. While no one likes to think about hazards and risks, taking proactive steps to boost safety makes a difference in keeping your house safe and comfortable. Here are a few practical tips and tricks to help create a safer home to protect your family and your property.
Easy Ways to Create a Safer Home
1. Reinforce Entry Points
The doors and windows of your home are the first line of defense against intruders. Here are a few ways to reinforce entry points.
- Install deadbolt locks on exterior doors.
- Add a security bar to your sliding glass door.
- Upgrade to WiFi-enabled smart locks that offer added security and remote monitoring.
- Use window locks to secure all windows, including in the basement.
- Reinforce glass windows with security film to make them resistant to break-ins.
2. Install Motion-Activated Lighting
Motion-activated lighting helps deter intruders and makes your home safer. Install motion-sensing fixtures near entry points, pathways, and dark corners of your property. These lights enhance security and offer convenience by automatically illuminating your path when you arrive home at night.
3. Maintain Landscaping to Create a Safer Home
Well-maintained landscaping enhances your home’s curb appeal and contributes to safety. Trim bushes and shrubs near windows and entry points to eliminate hiding spots for intruders. Keep the property well-lit, including walkways, the front porch, and outdoor living spaces to deter burglars.
4. Invest in a Home Security System
A home security system provides peace of mind, and security system signage acts as a deterrent to burglars. Choose a reputable security company that offers 24/7 monitoring, security cameras, and window and door sensors. Many modern systems can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps, allowing you to monitor your home even when you’re away.
5. Secure Heavy Furniture and Appliances
To prevent accidents in your home, secure heavy furniture and appliances, especially if you have young children or rambunctious pets. Use anti-tip brackets to anchor tall furniture like bookshelves and dressers to the wall.
6. Create a Safer Home with Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are essential for the early detection of life-threatening hazards. Place them in key areas such as bedrooms, hallways, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Test these detectors regularly and change the batteries at least once a year.
7. Create an Emergency Preparedness Kit
Preparing for emergencies is important for keeping your family safe. Assemble an emergency kit with essentials like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents. Make sure your family knows the location of thegeart and how to use its contents.
With these tips and tricks, you can create a safer and more secure home for you and your family. Safety is an ongoing process, so periodically review and update your security measures to feel prepared. With these steps, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home is a safe and comfortable place for family and friends.
Redtail Building Services offers home inspections for customers in Eastern Virginia. Contact us to request our services.