A home invasion is a scary situation and one we all want to avoid. The most effective way to do so, is by being prepared and taking precautions.
Here are seven tips to help keep you, your family and your property safe:
- Secure doors and windows: Make sure all entry points to your home, including doors, windows, and garage doors, are securely locked. Consider upgrading to high-quality locks and reinforce weak points with additional security measures such as door and window bars or sensors.
- Educate the whole family: Be sure that the household – including domestic staff – know when and how to use the alarm system and panic buttons, if these are installed. They should also know who to call in an emergency – make a list of contact numbers and post them on or near a phone. If you have not been informed of the arrival of delivery people or service providers, do not open the door, even if they insist that they have an appointment.
- Make your security system work for you: Make sure the alarm system is armed overnight or when anyone is home alone. If possible, lock inter-leading doors to rooms that are not used overnight.
- Install outdoor lighting: Keep the exterior of your home well-lit, especially around entry points and dark corners. Motion-activated lights can startle potential intruders and alert you to their presence.
- Keep your phone handy: Place your cell phone close to your bed, so that you can easily reach it in case of an emergency. Keep your panic button with you at all times.
- Test, test and re-test: This includes testing your alarm and panic buttons at least once a month. It also includes checking the walls, gates, and any entry points on your property and house to make sure it is all in good working order and clear of overhanging branches.
- Join your neighbourhood watch: Neighbours are often the ones to notice something amiss in your neighbourhood and on your property. Join your local Neighbourhood Watch. There is a significant reduction of incidents of break-ins and home invasions where community groups are active.
For more security tips, visit Fidelity Services Group.
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