Meet Frank Fourchalk, our international home security expert who has been working in the security industry for 25 years. He has implemented numerous crime prevention techniques that have been accepted and taught to police personal around the globe. Frank answers your questions and concerns regarding home security:
With the festive season coming up and people going away on holidays, most home owners are unsure as to where to start. A good place to begin is with the lighting. Lighting habits are very important. Although it’s not necessary to keep a light on in every room of your home, keeping lights on in the rooms your family usually occupy is a must.
This is done by purchasing an inexpensive light timer. These timers can be set to come on and off at desired times, and can also be used on appliances such as televisions or radios to further give the illusion of occupancy.
If you have a security system, make sure you use it and notify your alarm company that you’ll be away, and make sure they have updated contact information.
Install deadbolts on all exterior doors, and secure those vulnerable sliding windows and doors with wood dowels in the track and screws in the top track to prevent prying and lifting.
Examine your home and make sure your valuables are not visible from the street. You don’t want the “bad guys” viewing your expensive electronics or artwork. It’s always a good idea to partially close all curtains or blinds to ensure nobody can look in. If a passer-by can see your belongings, so can a crook.
Notifying trusted neighbours that you’ll be away is a good idea. If you’re unfamiliar with your neighbours or feel uncomfortable about letting them know you’ll be away, don’t inform them of your plans.
If you trust your neighbours, then let them know the dates you’ll be away and leave them a number where you can be reached in case of emergency.
Notifying all your neighbours is not necessary, one or two will do. Leaving a key with a trusted neighbour, relative or even a friend might be an option. Make certain that whoever has access to your home will know what to do in case of an emergency.
Maintain a well-kept yard. If while away your property takes on an unkempt appearance, it will send a message to a thief that nobody is home. Have this trusted person pick up your mail and newspapers daily. Allow your neighbour to park his/her car in your driveway while you’re away. This gives your home a lived-in look and confuses would-be burglars.
If you have an answering machine use a general message, don’t leave a message that lets intruders know you’re not at home. Nowadays, with call forward available through your telephone company, it’s a good idea to forward all your calls to a trusted family member or friend, giving the impression somebody is home at your residence.
Having security gates fitted on outer doors is an extra line of defense that acts as an effective deterrent against crime. Perimeter property fencing with deadbolts installed in the gates is must to help keep the “bad guys” off the property.
And don’t forget before leaving your home to make sure all windows and doors are secure.
Keep posting us questions, so that we can help you secure your home.
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