Decorating your new home is definitely more fun than setting up security measures. But burglars strike every twenty-one seconds, so home security should be a top priority. To help you get back to the fun stuff, here are ten simple things you should do right away to secure your new home. 1. Secure the doors Don’t help a burglar stroll in through the front door. Inspect all of your exterior doors to make sure the door frames are strong, the hinges are protected, and—if your door has a mail slot—that someone can’t reach through it to unlock the door. 2. Lock the windows Doors and windows are the most common entry points for burglars. Unfortunately, manufacturer latches on windows aren’t always effective—and sometimes they’re downright flimsy. If you don’t like the looks of your window latches, beef up security with locks or key-operated levers. 3. Light up the Landscape Vandals, burglars, and other criminals don’t like to be in the spotlight. Keep bad folks at bay with ample outdoor lighting. Place lights around your front and back yards, along pathways, and near the garage and other outdoor structures. Not only will you make intruders skittish, you’ll also cut down your risk of a stumble on your way up the front steps. 4. Eliminate hiding places Trees and shrubs may give your house curb appeal, but they also give burglars a handy place to hide. Trim down trees and plants close to your home that could be used for cover. Opt for smaller flowers and bushes instead. If you have trees near windows, either remove them or reinforce those windows with extra security.
