In the winter months, it can be easy to forget to pay attention to keeping your home secure. However, though inclement weather may seem discouraging to you, it does not prevent many criminals from taking advantage of people’s homes during the winter months. For the total amount of burglaries in 2005, 69% of those involved theft from residential property. In those residential burglaries, most of the burglars spent less than 60 seconds breaking in to a home. Even during the winter, your home’s security should be a subject that you pay close attention to. Here are some general tips that will help you in keeping your home safe and secure for your family.
Plow Your Driveway
It’s highly recommended that you arrange for your driveway to be plowed on a regular basis. This is not only important for your own personal safety, but can also help to discourage burglars as well. If you are absent for a long period of time, an unplowed driveway may be a sign to burglars that your house is deserted.
Mark Your Valuables
A good habit to get into is to write your postal code with a security marker on your valuable electronics, keepsakes and other items. Keep a running inventory of these objects, updating it as necessary. This way, if the police recover stolen goods, they have the ability to return them directly to you (as long as you reported them missing). This is a precautionary measure, but should be followed nonetheless.
Check Your Outdoor Security Equipment
If you have security lighting, motion sensors or other equipment installed outdoors, it’s best if you test this equipment on a regular basis. Severe weather can damage or destroy outdoor equipment, and you may not notice until it is too late. If possible, check to see that any security equipment you purchase is rated for outdoor use.
Purchase a Lock Defroster
In order to avoid being kept out of your home or car by a frozen lock, always keep a high-quality lock defrosting device close at hand. These devices may be battery-operated, or may simply be a tube of liquid that can be used to melt the ice inside your lock. Most lock defrosters are relatively inexpensive, and can fit easily in a purse or handbag.
Protect Your Home
Purchasing a security system is important at any time of year, as it is a great step towards increasing your home’s overall level of security. You can follow this Step by Step Guide to choosing a home security system, which will help you to decide on a level of protection that is right for your home. Depending on your needs, you may find that having a home security system gives you a sense of reassurance that your home is under constant protection.
