Are you curious to learn ways to add more security and protection to your home? If so, then we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share the basics of home security and offer affordable ways to better protect yourself and your home. 
Upgrade all door locks
In terms of basic home security, one of the first and most important steps should be to ensure the locks on doors and entry points are high quality and can do the intended job. Whether you’re already established in your home or just moving into a new place, take a walk-through and check all the locks to make sure that they are sturdy and in good working order. If the doors have a standard-issue door lock then you might want to upgrade to a stronger deadbolt for an added layer of security and protection.
Another suggestion is to look into getting a home security alarm for even more peace of mind. These days there are plenty of options to fit all needs and budgets. You can get a professionally installed system that offers state-of-the-art options, or find a more modest DIY product that can be installed in about an hour.
Make it look like someone is home
Most would-be thieves are looking for quick and easy scores. They want to avoid obstacles and they certainly don’t want to get caught by the homeowner. That being said, they would prefer to break into a home where the owner is likely out of the picture. A home that is illuminated likely has someone inside, whereas a darkened home probably means that the owners are away. From the thief’s perspective, the second home will probably prove less difficult and is likely to be a more appealing option.
To deter these opportunistic thieves, leave a light on when you plan on being out late at night or away from home for an extended period of time. Get a timer for your lights so they go on at a certain time to give the impression that someone is home.
Keep valuables out of public view
Another way to deter thieves is to keep your valuable items out of public view. Don’t leave items in the line of sight from windows or doorways. Also, never leave valuable items sitting near an open window. This would include wallets or purses, phones, laptops, and jewelry.
If removing certain items from the line of sight isn’t feasible, then purchase drapes or shades and keep the windows covered when you’re not home. This will not only add a layer of protection to the home but will also provide a little extra privacy as well.
Join a community watch group
There’s a reason you see those “community watch’ signs around neighborhoods. It’s because the residents want to let would-be thieves know that they are looking out for each other’s safety and sticking together to prevent crime in their community. Join a community watch group to better protect yourself and your home. This could be an in-person group or online. If your community doesn’t have one yet, then start one and ask your neighbors to join.
