Keeping the integrity and security is something that you need to be serious about and something that can’t be neglected. Unfortunately, when it comes to this topic, knowing where to begin can be confusing. This article is filled with information and tips you can use to find the ideal home security system.

Changing the locks on your home can be a great way to increase security. Locks should always be changed when buying a new home. There could be numerous people that had copies of the keys, from the real estate agent to the previous owners. Locks should also be changed whenever your keys become lost, or after a break-up in a relationship.

If you will be vacationing for an extended period of time, turn off the ringer on all the phones in your house. When burglars hear phones ringing for an extended period of time in a home, they know that there is no one there to answer.

It is important to activate your security system when you will be away or at night. If you should fall asleep and forget to set the system it is useless. If you are someone who is often distracted or has a problem remembering things, add activating your system to your checklist of important things to remember.

Keep your external home wiring under cover. You don’t want your wiring to be obvious to the wrong types of people. Not only does it invite the risk of a criminal cutting your phones and electricity, it also is often something thieves seek out! Copper (often in wires) can be sold for a decent price.

One of the biggest areas of concern in regards to home security is the landscaping of your home. Do not let your bushes and other landscaping grow to where it can hide entry points into your home. Thieves just love to be able to stay hidden while they enter and leave your home, so keep your bushes trimmed.

You could hide some valuables within your walls. You needn’t tear down your walls to do this. There are many places in your home that are pre-cut and available. You could removed the wiring from an electric socket that you aren’t using, and stash jewelry inside it.

If you buy expensive electronics or appliances, throw the packages away the day that your trash pickup occurs. Having these boxes nearby can tell robbers what kind of merchandise you’ve got in your house.

Just moved in? Time for new locks! Regardless of how you feel about the sellers, you never know someone’s true intentions. Aside from that, other people lived in the home even before the ones from whom you purchased the home.

Do not let too many people know you are going on vacation. Though you may be able to trust some of your neighbors, you never know who they could tell or who else may be listening. If you need your pets taken care of or plants watered when you are away, have a close friend or family member come to your home.

Make sure your home security company offers a guarantee on their products and services, preferably for at least a year. You want to make sure you are satisfied with the service they offer, and you also want to make sure you will not be charged extra if the equipment they install is faulty.

Landscape around your home with an eye to safety. Don’t obstruct windows or doors with shrubs, plants, fences or trees. Intruders should have nowhere to hide near your home. Plan your home with safety in mind.

An important part of vetting any security company before you sign a contract with them is finding out how long they’ve been providing security services in your community. A company with a long history has proved they can survive and provide great service to people. When you know that you’re dealing with a company of some repute, you can feel more at ease making that decision.

The best types of locks are deadbolt locks. Spring locks are the easiest for a thief to manipulate, they are also the most common on many homes. People will lock the spring lock on the doorknob, but leave the deadbolt unlocked. The deadbolt is the hardest for a thief to access, so use it whenever you can.

If there is space around your door within its frame, shore it up with .75″ plywood. If wood won’t do it, try using sheet metal instead. When there is a gap, the burglar can easily jimmy open the door, so close up the space and ensure that no one will be able to get inside.

You want to always keep your home and family safe. There is no room for doubt on this matter. Sometimes it’s hard to know what steps must be taken. Fortunately, these tips have shed some light on the matter.

Make Sure Your Home Is Safe With These Tips was originally published on Spring