• Update locks & door hinges that are not secured with screws to prevent entry.
• Install smart home security systems such as alarm systems, cameras, or motion sensors for added protection.
• Secure valuable items using safes, wall anchors, insurance, or hiding them in difficult-to-find places.
• Get to know your neighbors and build relationships with them to help in the event of an emergency.
• Be aware of your surroundings & suspicious activity and alert authorities if necessary.
Moving into a new home can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. On top of packing, unpacking, and getting acquainted with your new surroundings, it’s essential to take safety precautions to ensure the security of your family. You can take a few simple steps to ensure your family is safe and secure in your new home. Here are some of them.
1. Update Your Locks
The first step is to change the locks on all doors leading outside and interior doors leading to places such as garages or basements. This is especially important if you’re moving into an older home or one with tenants who have recently moved out because you don’t know who may have had access to the house.
It’s also a good idea to update your door hinges if they are not already secured with screws because this will help prevent someone from removing the door from its frame. Some new homeowners also opt for additional security measures, such as installing deadbolts and peepholes.
2. Install Security Devices
Once you’ve changed the locks, you may want to consider installing a smart home security system. You can choose from various options, such as alarm systems, cameras, or motion sensors. This system can alert you to suspicious activity and allow you to monitor the property from anywhere in the world using your smartphone. You can also opt for additional security measures like window sensors, doorbell cameras, or smart locks.
3. Secure Your Valuables
Any valuables you plan to keep in the house should be properly secured. This could include family heirlooms, expensive jewelry, artwork, or other items not regularly used. Depending on the item and the value, you can consider various ways to secure them. Here are some ideas:
a. Use a safe
A safe can securely store jewelry, important documents, and money. You can choose from various sizes, so you’ll be able to find one that fits your needs.
b. Install wall anchors
For artwork or expensive electronics, you can install a wall anchor to make it difficult for potential thieves to remove the items from your home. You can purchase wall anchors from most hardware stores.
c. Get insurance
For items of high value, it’s a good idea to purchase insurance. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that if anything happens to your items, you’d be covered financially.
d. Hide valuables
If you don’t want to use a safe or other security measures, simply hide your items where they will be difficult to find. This could include false compartments in furniture or closets or using a hollowed-out book as a safe.
4. Get to Know Your Neighbors
Getting to know your neighbors is essential to establish a sense of community. Knowing who your neighbors are can help in the event of an emergency and will also be beneficial if you ever need to ask for help or advice. You can introduce yourself to your neighbors or join a local community group. Make sure to take the time to get to know your neighbors and build relationships.
5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Finally, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. This means paying attention to suspicious activity in your neighborhood and alerting the authorities if you notice anything unusual. Monitoring any unfamiliar vehicles or people in the area is also a good idea. Some people also choose to join a neighborhood watch program.
If you feel like your neighborhood is unsafe, there are additional steps you can take to help ensure the safety of your family. You can install outdoor lighting, trim hedges, and bushes, or install motion-activated lights. Just by taking these simple steps, you can make your home a more secure environment for your family.
Moving into a new home can be exciting and stressful, so taking the necessary precautions to ensure your family is safe is important. By updating your locks, installing security devices, securing your valuables, getting to know your neighbors, and being aware of your surroundings, you can have greater peace of mind knowing that your family is secure in your new home. Take the time to familiarize yourself with these strategies for keeping your family secure in a new home.
