Posted on September 13th, 2024.

Your home should always be your sanctuary, especially when you're away, and ensuring it's secure during your absence is critical. True home security goes beyond simply locking doors and windows; it involves a thorough approach that contemplates every potential vulnerability.

Often, homeowners might believe they have covered all bases, only to find that small yet significant areas have been overlooked. This is why taking a methodical, professional approach can offer a reassuring peace of mind. Seeking expert advice for a home security assessment can reveal unseen weak spots, as trained eyes often catch what the untrained might miss.

Think about your routine security checks. Are they thorough enough? Evaluating various entry points, including doors, windows, basements, and garages, is just the beginning. The quality of locks and the condition of door and window frames play a key role in this assessment. But let's not stop there; employing advanced security measures such as smart locks, alarm systems, and surveillance cameras can fortify your home significantly.

Consider each component of your security ensemble as a layer of protection, collectively creating a robust shield against unwanted intrusions. Can you already feel the growing sense of security around your home?

 

Conduct a Home Security Assessment

Even the best-prepared homeowners can sometimes overlook critical vulnerabilities–therefore, evaluating all entry points in your home is critical. This includes all doors, windows, and even lesser-considered access points like basements and garages.

Here's a checklist of what you need to look into:

• Check that all external doors and frames are in good condition and free from decay.
• Make sure that all locks are in proper working order. This may include deadbolts, mortice locks, and additional devices on sliding doors.
• Verify that all windows have functional locking mechanisms.
• Inspect any glass panels within doors to make sure that they are secure.
• Analyse the frames and seals around each window; any significant damage can provide easy access for intruders.
• Review garage and shed entries, as these structures often contain valuable items and tools that could assist in a burglary.
• Assess the outdoor lighting around your property. Motion-sensor lights can deter potential intruders significantly.

Although homeowners can manage some tasks themselves, there are instances where professional services are advantageous. For example, a deadbolt poorly installed might leave your door vulnerable. Similarly, advanced systems like CCTV setups require expert installation and guidance. An eye trained in home protection can identify weaknesses; hence seeking professional advice from experts could be invaluable.

 

Install Robust Locks and Security Systems

Installing a robust security system for your home is critical, especially if you are going to be away for a while. Here are some things you might want to consider:

High-Quality Locks

Having high-quality locks such as deadbolts and mortice locks is foundational when you consider how to secure your home from break-in. These types of locks are known for their durability and resistance to tampering. Opt for options that are British Standard (BS3621), which means they meet the necessary security requirements.

Smart Locks

Smart locks offer the convenience of keyless entry and allow you to control them remotely using your smartphone. This means you can lock and unlock your doors from anywhere, ensuring you never have to worry about whether you’ve locked up properly.

Alarm Systems and Security Cameras

Alarm systems act as a powerful deterrent to potential burglars. Loud, piercing alarms can alert neighbours and scare off intruders, while silent alarms can notify security companies for immediate action. Security cameras, especially those with remote monitoring capabilities, let you keep an eye on your home at all times. Some even come with motion detection, notifying you of any suspicious activity via an app on your phone.

 

Important! Consider backup power systems for these security devices to ensure they remain operational even during power outages. Burglars often wait for such vulnerabilities, so keep in mind that your security measures need to be consistently active. A well-rounded security package often includes battery backups or solar-powered alternatives.

 

Create an Illusion of Occupancy

Home intruders often scout for tell-tale signs that a house is empty to determine their targets. A vacant home is inviting trouble, so your goal should be to make your residence appear as if someone is always there:

• Start by using timers for lights, which can be programmed to turn on and off at various intervals, mimicking the habits of an occupied household.
• Alongside lights, consider placing timers on TVs or radios. A flickering light from a TV or the sound of a radio can further perpetuate the appearance that someone is home. This small investment can go a long way in deterring potential burglars
• Enlist the help of a trusted neighbour or friend to collect your mail and newspapers regularly. Piled-up mail is a glaring signal that no one has been home for a while.
• Ask someone to move your bins on collection day can also help maintain the normal activity pattern around your home.
• An unkempt yard can also scream vacancy to potential intruders. If your absence is lengthy, hiring a gardener or asking a neighbour to mow the lawn and tend to plants can help ensure that your property appears well cared for.
• Leaving a car in the driveway, or asking a neighbour to park their car there occasionally, is another effective method to create the illusion of occupancy.

 

Related: Garden Security Tips for Intruder Protection          

 

Wrapping Up

Securing your home while away is a multidimensional approach that combines technology, awareness, and good old-fashioned neighbourly cooperation. The strategies outlined here aim to cover every possible angle, leveraging both personal effort and professional expertise. You benefit from robust locks, advanced security systems, and a supportive community, each playing a vital role in safeguarding your property.

At Lockswift Locksmiths Cambridge, we’re dedicated to offering bespoke solutions to meet your unique needs. From lockouts to full lock change and upgrade services, our expertise ensures all weak points are addressed effectively. Our services extend to garden security, burglary and boarding up service, and UPVC locks and gearboxes changes. Our aim is not just to fix problems but to preempt them by creating a layered security approach that’s hard for any intruder to breach.

Why leave anything to chance when expert guidance is just a call away? Contact Us Now!

Have questions? Reach out to us at 07989 954682 or via email at [email protected] to discuss your requirements.