10 tips to protect your family and home

Your home is supposed to be the place where you feel safe, and the people with whom you share the space are precious. But, as much as your home is your sanctuary, it can still fall victim to criminal damage and burglary. Don’t let that happen by following at least some of these tips to protect your family and home.

Taking the steps now

No one wants their home to be broken into or vandalized. Yet, it can often feel like it’s sheer bad luck if your home is targeted. That isn’t the case, though.

Instead, burglars and other criminals will look for homes that stand out as easy pickings. They will seek out houses that seem vulnerable, especially when you are at work or on vacation.

To make sure your house does not fall victim to theft or at least attempted theft, consider these tips to protect your home and your family wherever you live:

1. Replace locks to protect family members

If you’re moving into a new home, the first thing you need to do is change the locks. But, many new homeowners don’t think about changing the locks. Usually, they are too wrapped up in unpacking and decorating.

However, you never know who has the keys to this house. The previous owners may not have changed them, which means that there could be somebody who wants to take advantage of the new ownership.

If you change the locks as soon as you move in, you will immediately protect your home from any issues. That allows you to sleep easily in your new residence.

2. Reinforce doors and windows

Similarly, your windows are doors will require reinforcement, too. Protecting both is important.

Thieves won’t typically try their front door. Instead, they will look for other entry points around the house. This usually involves the back or side doors, as well as any windows.

While a locked door and window can act as a deterrent to everyday thieves, some will not give up. That’s especially true if they have specifically targeted your property.

Therefore, reinforcing your windows and doors will make it more difficult for thieves to break these entry points down with force. That ensures they will not gain entry to your home, no matter what.

3. Use security devices to protect your family better

While security systems were once only required at stores or around the properties of the wealthy, modern security systems are available for everybody. There are many types of security systems to invest in, including cameras, alarms, and security lights.

You should consider how you invest and install these systems, though. While visible cameras can act as a deterrent, you may not be able to install them everywhere.

Instead, think about Hiding a Spy Camera in less obvious places, or even inside the house, if you are suspicious about your babysitter or cleaner. There are an array of ways you can approach security systems, so look for an option that works well for you.

4. Use smart home tech

Many homes are coming around to the Smart Home trend. In some places, this involves a home assistant that switches the TV on for you when asked or gives you weather updates before you head out for the day.

However, other Smart Home lovers have everything hooked up to the same system. Through smart home technology, you can monitor your home wherever you are through video cameras on the front door.

That notifies you of people moving around outside. You can also set up your lights to switch on and off throughout the day, making it look like you’re at home even if you are not.

5. Illuminate the surrounding area

If you live in an area that seems to get darker than the places you’re used to, lights around the home and garden are an exceptional way to feel a little safer. This applies to both city living and anyone living in the suburbs, as there are different areas that you want to light up to feel safer when coming home at night.

For a city townhouse, you may have an alleyway leading to your door. Lights at the entrance and in the center will make this alley safer.

As for suburban living, lights in blind spots or down dark side paths will deter thieves or other criminals. Why? They won’t have anywhere to lurk and hide should you get back while they are planning a break-in.

6. Get to know your neighbors

From garden parties to looking after your kids when you need to rush out quickly, there are plenty of reasons to learn your neighbors’ names and get to know them. One of the most important reasons is to ensure your home and your neighborhood are as safe as they can be.

The better your relationship with your neighborhood, and indeed the wider community, the more everyone will look out for one another. As everyone has each others’ backs, you’re assured better protection from criminals. Plus, no one wants to live next door to a bad neighbor, so it will at least make your life easier.

7. Research the area to protect your family too

Likewise, the better you know the area where you live, the safer you can make your family. You will know which areas to avoid and which are safe, and this can help when you, your partner, or your kids are walking home late at night.

No matter where you move, check local crime statistics that will give you an idea of what to expect. At the very least, you’ll know what you’re getting into, and this can determine whether the move is the right one for your family.

8. Fix any problems

It’s not just criminal damage and theft that puts your home and family at risk. Your house could also be an accident waiting to happen. If you know the signs of structural damage or even potential issues such as flood risks, you can take steps to fix it as quickly as possible.

Not only will this ensure safety, but it will also enable you to get on top of problems before they become worse and more expensive. The longer you leave these problems, the worse the issue will become, so act as soon as something looks off.

9. Protect your family with good communication

Just because you’re away from home doesn’t mean you can’t still check in on your family and make sure everything is okay. A quick text message here and there is often enough to keep up with everyone’s day. Plus, it saves you from worrying about how everybody is doing.

If you’re away for a few days and have left your kids to their own devices, give them a specific time to check in each day to make sure there are no problems. Some parents often believe that no news is good news, but getting them to confirm that will put you at ease.

10. Use home insurance

The final and perhaps most effective way to protect your home and your family is to invest in home insurance. However, many people will look at the cost and balk. They believe they don’t need the insurance as they don’t think anything will happen to them.

But, the benefits of house insurance cannot be underestimated. Whether through theft or a disaster such as a fire or a flood, you can guarantee your possessions are safe and sound in your home.

This allows you to recoup costs for expensive items, such as the TV and sofas and covers any other expenses. No wonder it is a requirement to have home insurance for any place you buy here in Canada.

11. Safe and sound

From home security systems to smart technology to get to know (and even love) your neighbor, there is a wide, plentiful range of options to protect your family and home wherever you are. There is no such thing as being too cautious when looking after your house and avoiding habits that attract burglars. So, don’t hesitate to take action before your home becomes a victim of criminal interest.