Thankfully, with some simple and budget-friendly modifications, you can greatly enhance your home’s security. Here are some important and inexpensive modifications to help you feel safe and secure.
Update your locks. One of the best modifications you can make to improve your home security is installing new locks. The locks on your exterior doors should include a deadbolt, with the part that enters the door frame, called the “throw bolt,” extending deep into the frame.
Also, ensure the locks on your windows function properly. As windows age, they can drop out of alignment, causing the locks to not engage properly.
Some experts suggest installing alarms on your windows as well because the noise the alarm makes can frighten home invaders and provide precious time to call the authorities.
Steel doors. Your home’s exterior doors should be made of steel. Ideally, your doors should also be solid, with no windows for would-be intruders to access door knobs or to slip through. Small windows at the top of the door are okay because they don’t reduce the strength of the door and aren’t useful for breaking in.
Also, another recommendation is to ensure your entryways and window areas are free of hiding places. Cut back large shrubbery and tree branches so nobody can lurk around your home.
Furry friend. A dog is a terrific deterrent to criminals. Dogs don’t have to be trained guards, or even large, to make burglars pass you by. Man’s best friend poses a potential threat or at least an inconvenience, and criminals like easy targets.
A barking dog is also an instant alarm, notifying both you and the neighbors there is trouble afoot. If you don’t own a dog, you can purchase an alarm that sounds like one when activated.
Motion sensors. Lights that come on when there is activity outside can be a boon to home safety. They should be installed in strategic locations so trespassers trigger them before entering your house.
You can replace existing fixtures with motion-activated lights or install wiring for new lighting. There are also solar-powered options that save you the trouble and expense of hiring an electrician.
Some motion-sensor lights also offer dusk-till-dawn sensors so you don’t have to remember to turn them on in the evening.
Security systems. By recording what’s going on in your property’s key areas, you can keep would-be burglars at bay.
Newer systems connect wirelessly to your computer and record activity which you can view later on the internet. Some systems include a camera, motion sensors, and noise detection.
You can even get a peephole with video and night vision so you don’t need to guess who is ringing your doorbell. What’s more, experts at HGTV explain you can even control newer security systems via your cell phone, and systems do not involve a monthly fee.
As Angie’s List notes, “Today’s home security systems are far more advanced, and homeowners can now choose from a wide range of security options, such as around-the-clock monitoring and video surveillance.”
Stay alert. These days, seniors aren’t only vulnerable to physical break-ins. It’s important to be aware of potential fraud and scams, especially over the phone.
Some criminals attempt to steal your credit card information, sell you false goods, or even steal your identity. The National Council on Aging recommends keeping a few easy lines in mind if you’re approached by a solicitor.
You can even write yourself a script and keep it by the phone, since some scoundrels are particularly persuasive.
You can say something simple, such as, “I never purchase anything over the phone. Please send me your request in writing.” Also, ask the caller to give you the company’s name and contact information so you can follow up later.
Safe at home. Improving your home’s security can give you great peace of mind. Consider some inexpensive but effective modifications, such as adding locks, lighting, and alarms.
Also stay alert to scams and frauds. With a handful of smart and budget-friendly changes, you can stay ahead of criminals and keep from becoming a victim.
Submitted by Lisa Gonzalez
- website www.elderscorps.org
- email Lisa