Making Your Home More Secure

Home security is a critical aspect of ensuring your safety and well-being and the importance of protecting you and your home from potential threats cannot be overstated.

Evaluating the risks associated with home security involves a meticulous assessment of various factors that could compromise the safety of your property.

This article aims to work as a guide and provide you with an in-depth understanding of how to enhance your home’s security based on individual needs and circumstances.

It’s essential to recognize that the approach to bolstering home security can differ significantly depending on personal preferences, financial constraints, and specific vulnerabilities.

For some individuals, investing in an all-in-one solution from a professional security company may be the ideal choice.

These packages often include a combination of alarm systems, surveillance cameras, and 24/7 monitoring services, offering a robust layer of protection.

However, such comprehensive solutions may not be feasible for everyone due to budgetary limitations.

Alternatively, many homeowners might find it more practical to implement security improvements gradually.

This incremental approach allows for a tailored investment in various security measures over time, ensuring that each addition maximizes the overall safety of the home.

Whether you opt for advanced smart home security systems or basic enhancements like improved locks and outdoor lighting, the key is to continually assess and address potential risks.

Understanding the unique security needs of your home is the first step towards creating a secure environment.

By thoroughly evaluating the existing security measures and identifying areas that require improvement, you can develop a strategic plan that aligns with both your budget and specific safety concerns.

This guide will explore various options and provide practical advice to help you make informed decisions about enhancing your home security.

Identifying Risks: A Room-by-Room Approach.

Ensuring the security of your home starts with a systematic identification of potential risks.

A room-by-room approach allows you to meticulously inspect each area for vulnerabilities, thereby safeguarding your residence more effectively.

One of the primary focuses should be on points of entry, such as doors and windows, which are common targets for unauthorized access.

Begin your inspection by examining the front and back doors. Ensure that all doors are made of solid, sturdy materials and are equipped with high-quality deadbolt locks. Assess the condition of the door frames and hinges for signs of wear and tear that could weaken their integrity.

For added security, consider installing a peephole or a video doorbell, which allows you to see who is outside without opening the door.

Windows are another critical point of entry that require careful inspection. Check that all window locks are functional and that the glass is in good condition. For windows on the ground floor, installing window bars or security film can provide an additional layer of protection. Don’t overlook basement windows, which are often less visible but can be an attractive entry point for intruders.

In addition to these obvious vulnerabilities, it’s important to consider less apparent risks. For example, garages and sheds often house valuable items and tools that could be used to gain entry into your home. Ensure that these spaces are secured with strong locks and, if possible, integrate them into your home’s alarm system.

Lastly, evaluate the overall visibility of your home from the outside. Overgrown shrubs and trees can provide cover for potential intruders.

Regularly maintain your landscaping to ensure clear sightlines, and consider installing motion-sensor lights to deter night-time prowlers.

By conducting a thorough, room-by-room inspection and addressing both obvious and less apparent vulnerabilities, you can significantly enhance the security of your home.

This proactive approach not only helps in identifying potential risks but also in implementing effective preventive measures.

Securing Doors: Options and Considerations.

Ensuring the security of your home begins with reinforcing its primary entry points—doors. Various options exist to enhance door security, each catering to different needs and budget constraints.

A fundamental approach is to strengthen the door frame itself. Reinforced door frames are designed to withstand force, thereby reducing the risk of break-ins.

They can be installed without significant modification to your existing door set-up, making them an excellent choice for a cost-effective security upgrade.

Another essential component for door security is the deadbolt lock. Deadbolts provide a higher level of security compared to standard locks due to their sturdy design and resistance to forced entry.

Single-cylinder deadbolts, which require a key only from the outside, are commonly used. However, for heightened security, double-cylinder deadbolts, which need a key on both sides, can be considered, albeit with a potential trade-off in terms of emergency egress.

In recent years, smart locks have emerged as a popular choice for enhancing home security. These locks can be operated remotely via smart phone apps, offering convenience alongside security.

They come with features such as temporary access codes for guests, activity logs, and integration with other smart home devices.

While smart locks are generally more expensive than traditional locks, they provide a blend of security and modern functionality that can be appealing to tech-savvy homeowners.

For those seeking an additional layer of security, installing security doors on the outside of existing doors is a viable option.

Security doors are constructed from robust materials like steel and wrought iron, providing a physical barrier that complements other security measures.

They are available in various designs and colours, allowing homeowners to maintain their aesthetic preferences while upgrading security.

These doors can be fitted with screens to enhance ventilation and visibility, making them a practical and stylish addition to any home.

By considering options such as reinforced door frames, deadbolt locks, smart locks and security doors, you can significantly enhance the security of their front and back doors.

Each option provides unique benefits and can be tailored to fit different budgetary and aesthetic requirements, ensuring that securing your home does not compromise its visual appeal or your financial plans.

Reinforcing Windows: Strategies for Added Protection.

Enhancing the security of your home begins with reinforcing one of its most vulnerable points: the windows.

Various strategies can be employed to bolster window security, each offering unique advantages and potential drawbacks. One of the simplest methods is installing window locks.

These locks add a crucial layer of security, making it more difficult for intruders to force windows open. However, while cost-effective and easy to install, window locks may only provide limited protection against determined intruders.

Another effective strategy is applying security film to the windows. Security film is a transparent sheet that adheres to the glass, making it shatter-resistant. This not only deters break-ins but also prevents shards from causing injury in the event of an attempted intrusion.

The main advantage of security film is its unobtrusive nature, preserving the aesthetic appearance of your windows.

However, it does not entirely prevent the glass from breaking and may require professional installation to ensure optimal effectiveness.

For more robust protection, installing window bars can be considered. These bars act as a physical barrier, making it nearly impossible for intruders to gain entry through the windows. While highly effective, window bars can sometimes be perceived as unsightly and may create a sense of confinement within the home.  There is a catch though; they can pose a safety hazard in the event of an emergency exit.

Security screens present a balanced alternative, offering both security and aesthetic appeal. Unlike traditional flyscreens, security screens are made from high-tensile stainless steel mesh, which is resistant to cutting and tampering.

 Products like Crimsafe provide an excellent option, combining durability with visual appeal. These screens allow for clear visibility and ventilation while significantly enhancing security.

Though more expensive than standard options, their long-term benefits often justify the investment.

By carefully considering these methods—window locks, security film, window bars, and security screens, you can significantly enhance the security of your home.

Each option offers varying degrees of protection, and the choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Security Screens and Flyscreens: Enhanced Defence.

When it comes to enhancing home security, security screens and flyscreens play a crucial role.

While standard flyscreens are primarily designed to keep insects out, security-rated flyscreens offer an added layer of protection against intruders.

These security screens are constructed from stronger materials such as stainless steel mesh or aluminium, making them difficult to cut or break through.

The primary distinction between standard flyscreens and security-rated flyscreens lies in their construction and durability.

Standard flyscreens are typically made from lightweight materials like fibreglass or nylon, which are effective at keeping bugs out but provide minimal resistance to forced entry.

In contrast, security screens are built to withstand significant force, featuring reinforced frames and high-tensile mesh.

Installing security screens can greatly enhance the safety of your home without compromising on aesthetics.

These screens are available in various styles and finishes, allowing homeowners to choose options that complement their home’s design.

From sliding doors to hinged windows, security screens can be customized to fit any opening, ensuring both security and style.

The installation process for security screens is straightforward but should be carried out by professionals to ensure optimal performance.

A professional installer will measure the openings accurately and fit the screens securely to prevent tampering.

Additionally, modern security screens are designed with convenience in mind, featuring easy-to-use locking mechanisms and unobstructed views, so you can enjoy natural light and ventilation without sacrificing security.

Overall, security screens and flyscreens offer a practical solution for enhancing home security.

By choosing security-rated screens, homeowners can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing their home is protected against both pests and potential intruders.

Customisable to fit the unique aesthetics of any home, these screens provide an effective and visually appealing defence system.

Technological Solutions: Alarms and Surveillance Systems.

In the realm of home security, technology plays a pivotal role in safeguarding households against potential threats.

Alarm systems and surveillance cameras have become integral components of modern security plans, offering both deterrence and real-time monitoring capabilities.

Alarm systems are designed to detect unauthorized entry into a property. They typically consist of sensors placed on doors and windows, motion detectors, and a central control panel.

When a breach is detected, the system triggers an audible alarm and can alert homeowners and, if connected, a monitoring service.

There are several types of alarm systems available, including wired, wireless, and smart alarms. Wired systems are known for their reliability but can be expensive and complex to install.

Wireless systems offer ease of installation and flexibility but may require regular battery maintenance.

Smart alarms, integrated with home automation systems, provide advanced features such as remote control via smart phone apps and integration with other smart devices.

Surveillance cameras add an extra layer of security by providing visual monitoring of a property. They come in various forms, including indoor and outdoor cameras, wired and wireless models, and those with advanced features like high-definition resolution, night vision, and motion detection.

Modern surveillance systems often incorporate cloud storage for footage, allowing homeowners to access and review recordings from anywhere.

Additionally, many cameras offer live streaming capabilities, ensuring real-time monitoring and quick response to any suspicious activities.

When choosing alarm and surveillance systems, it is crucial to consider both security needs and budget constraints.

High-end systems with advanced features may offer comprehensive protection but can be cost-prohibitive.

Conversely, more affordable options might lack certain functionalities but still provide a significant security upgrade.

Homeowners should assess their specific requirements, such as the size of the property, potential entry points, and desired level of monitoring, to select the most suitable systems.

Integrating these technological solutions effectively into a home security plan can significantly enhance overall safety and peace of mind.

Additional Security Measures: Lighting and Landscaping.

Enhancing your home’s security involves more than just robust locks and alarm systems.

Proper outdoor lighting and strategic landscaping can play crucial roles in deterring potential intruders. One of the most effective measures is the installation of motion-sensor lights.

These lights automatically turn on when they detect movement, illuminating dark areas around your property and making it difficult for intruders to approach undetected. Positioning these lights near entry points such as doors and windows, as well as along pathways, can significantly increase visibility and reduce the risk of break-ins.

Landscaping also contributes to home security. Overgrown trees and bushes can provide hiding spots for intruders, so it is essential to keep them well-trimmed.

Consider planting thorny bushes under windows or using gravel paths, which create noise when walked on, thereby alerting you to any unusual activity.

Additionally, maintaining a clear line of sight from the street to your front door can deter intruders, as they are less likely to target a home if they can be easily seen.

Secure fencing is another important aspect of landscaping that can enhance home security. A sturdy, well-maintained fence acts as a physical barrier, making it harder for intruders to gain access to your property.

When choosing a fence, consider its height, material, and design. Solid fences with minimal gaps are more effective at preventing unauthorized entry. For added security, consider installing a lockable gate and ensuring it is always kept closed and locked.

Implementing these measures effectively requires careful planning and regular maintenance. Ensure that all lights are functioning correctly and replace any burned-out bulbs promptly.

Regularly check and trim your hedges and trees, and inspect your fencing for any damage or weak points.

By integrating these additional security measures into your home, you can create a safer living environment and deter potential intruders more effectively.

Personal Home Security Camera Systems On A Budget.

Personal Home Security Systems, whether it might be a 8 camera video surveillance system a video doorbell can be effective ways of letting you know who has entered your property or might be at your front door.

Are you now having trouble getting up look through the peephole of the door from your bed or favourite recliner chair? 

If so, then having the ability to observe who is either at the front door or is walking around your inside your yard from the comfort wherever you might be relaxing is a great lifestyle improvement for you.

Personal Home 8 Camera Security Systems bring peace of mind and comfort by allowing you to having a dedicated TV screen or 2 for observing what’s going on around your home.   

Alternatively, you might be able to simply have the option of just switching HDMI sources on existing TV’s to flick from Digital TV display to the Security System display.

Video door bells might typically come with a single screen for viewing who’s at the front door but there have been a lot of advancements in this space in recent years, so now you also have the option of viewing the feed from your video doorbell on your TV as well.

If you are comfortable purchasing items on eBay, Amazon, catch, or Kogan, then you can normally get some fantastic deals and will have a lot more options to look at that if you buying a system from a store with a door.  

If you’re not a person that does thing online, don’t fret, there is a plethora of stores that sell home security systems and video door bells such as Bunnings, Harvey Norman, The Good Guys, JB Hi-Fi, Officeworks, and Jaycar to name just a few.  

If you shop at Aldi, keep your eyes open for their specials and when they offer you the specials catalogue at the checkout, be sure to grab it.  

I purchased an 8 camera system from Aldi a few years ago and I’m still using it.  It was made by a Victorian company, it is of great quality, easy to use and only cost me $275.  

You could also look up Home Security System manufacturers like Swan and see if you can purchase a system over the phone or if not, ask them what is the nearest re-seller or retailer of their products closest to your home.

If you purchase a wired system rather than a wireless system, I recommend getting a cabling contractor or a CCTV installation specialist to run the cables through your home as you will want this done professionally so that you don’t have ugly cables running along walls inside your home.   It doesn’t cost a lot and is well worth it.

If you have the internet on at home, you can set-up a Swann security system so that you can view what’s going on around your home on your phone or tablet.   You will need to download an app onto your phone and there’s a little bit of setting it up, so if you are not a technology friendly senior, you might need to engage some assistance from the kids, grandkids or a tech savvy neighbour.

Once you’ve got your cameras set-up around your home, I would also recommend purchasing an array of motion detection activated solar powered spotlights and position them strategically around your home.  

Alternatively, you could contact an electrician and get some mains electricity powered LED spotlights that are also motion detection activated hardwired in.  

Even though your security system will have an infra red ability to see at night, you cannot see the face of people clearly with infra red and if your eyesight isn’t as good as it used to be, you might not even be able to make out what people are doing via the infra red vision.

By having an array of spotlights around your home, when someone does approach within a certain distance, the affected area will light up lights it’s daytime and you can see clearly who it is and what they are doing.

I strongly recommend getting contacting your electricity retailer (the company you pay your power bills to) and find out from them who you contact in your area to get a special lock for your electrical box on the outside of your home. 

The last thing you want a person with criminal intent doing is simply opening your electrical box and turning off the mains power to your home and thus making your home security system redundant.  

These special locks are around $150, they are pick proof and cannot be cut with bolt cutters (from what I remember at least) and will securely lock your electricity box.  

The electrical retailer will still be able to check your meter as all meter readers carry a master key that will open all of these specialty locks.

I think a personal 8 camera home security system is the best option.  

They are constantly showing you what’s going on at all key areas of your home as well as recording everything 24/7. 

If there is a motion detection event, they immediately start making a specific alarm recording and they will also record around 30 seconds prior to the event as well as 30 seconds after.

Assuming that they don’t get into your home and only just give you a scare, police can save your recordings onto a flash drive, take it back to the station with them and if they can work out who these people are they can charge them for trespassing at the very least.