It is important to feel safe in our own homes, after all, if you cannot feel safe at home then where can you? Unfortunately, many of us do not feel as secure as we should in our own space and this can lead to stress and anxiety, which is bad for our overall health.
The good news is, there are lots of things we can do to boost our home’s security right now, many of them very affordable. Read on if that sounds good to you.
Start with doors and windows
When it comes to security, it is always good to start with the basics and this means your doors and windows. Make sure your exterior doors are solid-core or metal and fitted with high-quality deadbolts for starters. Reinforcing strike plates and using longer screws in hinges can dramatically increase resistance to forced entry, too.
When it comes to windows, check that locks are functional and consider adding window sensors or security film to make glass harder to break. These small upgrades are affordable and often overlooked.
Improve outdoor lighting and visibility
Dark corners are great for anyone who wants to break into your property and do you harm, so it’s always sensible to try and minimize places where they can lurk. Motion-activated lights near entrances, garages, and side yards can deter intruders and alert you to movement around your property so they are great to have.
Pathway lighting also improves safety for you and your guests, reducing trips and falls after dark. Trim back overgrown shrubs near windows and doors to eliminate hiding spots and improve sight lines.
Use smart technology to your advantage
These days, we are spoiled by the amount of smart technology there is available, much of it to help keep our homes safe. Video doorbells, smart locks, and outdoor cameras let you monitor activity in real time from your phone. Even simple alarm systems can be a powerful deterrent when clearly visible. The key is consistency, so be sure to install devices where they cover main access points and ensure they are maintained and updated.
Create strong perimeter protection
Defining and securing your property’s boundaries adds another layer of defense. Fences, walls, and hedges signal that your home is cared for and not an easy target. For larger properties or long driveways, electric gate systems can provide controlled access while adding a visible security feature that discourages unauthorized entry. Pairing gates with intercoms or keypad access helps you manage who comes onto your property without sacrificing convenience.
Build security into your daily habits
Even the best security setup won’t help if habits are lax. Lock doors and windows every time you leave, even for short trips. Bring in packages promptly, use timers for lights when you’re away, and ask neighbors to keep an eye out if you’re traveling. A lived-in look and consistent routines go a long way in deterring opportunistic break-ins.
Here’s to a home that really feels like a safe haven!
Photo by Obi Onyeador
