You might not realize it, but your family could be just one step away from a tragic event. Are you up on all of the things you need to do to ensure you have the best home security systems of 2020 and your home is safe? Find out now by checking out these tips:
- Do you have a freestanding mailbox? If so, realize that anyone can get into it and steal your mail. This could lead someone to steal your identity. So, consider using a lock on your mailbox or lease a post office box.
- If you don’t have carbon monoxide detectors, get them.
- Consider putting the ringer of your landline phone on mute so that thieves don’t hear your phone ringing and ringing without getting answered. Oh, and if you have an answering machine, make sure that you keep the volume low and make sure you don’t say “we aren’t home right now.”
- Before you use an extension cord outside, make sure that it is acceptable for outdoor use.
- Don’t leave any note on your door indicating that you will “Be right back,” or anything similar, even if you are expecting someone.
- Is there a smoke detector on every floor of your home? Keep in mind that the buildup of dirt and dust can interfere with sensors.
- Upgrade your smoke alarms to interlink (wired and connected). This way, if one in the basement begins going off, you will hear it no matter where you are in the house.
- Stick to new batteries. Don’t try to recharge a non-rechargeable battery. It could explode.
- Throw away any oily rags by drying them outside before throwing them in a garbage can. Once the rags are dry, throw them in a metal can that has a cover. Any oily rag that is near a heat source could still begin to combust and cause fire.
- Don’t worry about food if there is a power outage. You can usually keep frozen food in a freezer for 48 hours.
- If you have been hit with a big winter storm and your car is stuck in the garage, you should still consider going out and shoveling…that way, burglars know that you are home.
- Place decals and security signs on your property from a security company, even if you don’t actually use one. Alternatively, or at the same time, you can get a “Beware of Dog” sign.
- Plant thorny shrubs and bushes near the windows to stop intruders.
- Before you leave on vacation, let a trustworthy neighbor know, and let them know in a discreet manner.
- Finally, don’t post photos on social media of your trip until you come back home.
ROBERT SICILIANO CSP, is a #1 Best Selling Amazon.com author, CEO of Safr.Me, home security expert for Porch.com, and the architect of the CSI Protection certification; a Cyber Social and Identity Protection security awareness training program.
