When preparing for summer, many homeowners get out the patio furniture and prep the pool. However, since this time of year is peak residential burglary season, it’s also essential to take steps to improve your home security. Here’s how to keep your family safe. 

4 Tips to Improve Your Home Security

1. Use Motion Sensor Lights

To keep the items in your garage safe, install motion sensor lights over the main and side doors. These will make it easy to see intruders and may even scare them off, as they automatically turn on. Select lights that are bright enough to illuminate the entire area you want to protect. Also, install them at a height where they can be easily seen.

2. Install Window Sensors

While opening a window to let in fresh air is pleasant, it can also leave the home vulnerable to intruders. Install window sensors that send text message alerts to the homeowner if the frames are opened. Then, you can asses the threat and decide whether it’s necessary to call the police, or you can set the system to handle this automatically. Window sensors also allow you to track if they’re locked, enhancing your security.

Install an option that uses magnets to create an electric current and set off an alarm if the flow of energy is disrupted. Most families put in these devices on their ground-floor windows only, as they’re the most vulnerable to potential break-ins.

3. Put Outdoor Items Away

After long days outside in the summer heat, it’s tempting to leave items like landscaping tools in the backyard. However, this can entice burglars to steal them. Instead, put the devices away in the house or garage and lock up. Include the main and side garage door in your security system by installing surveillance cameras and door sensors to let you know if someone has opened them.

4. Don’t Broadcast Your Vacation 

When traveling during the summer, don’t broadcast via social media that you’ll be heading out. Thieves can use this information and attempt a break-in. Also, wait until after you’re back to share photos. 

When you want to improve your home security, contact Hawk Security Systems Inc. in the Shenandoah Valley, VA. They’ve been in business since 1990 and offer customized security solutions for residential and commercial clients. Call them at (540) 434-4295 to speak to a staff member. Follow them on Facebook for more home security tips.

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