There is no better way to prevent burglars than having a home security system to stop home intruders.
Most burglaries can be prevented with a high-tech security system, but are there budget ways to improve your home security? Yes, there are!
Burglaries usually occur when there are no security systems. In fact, most burglars simply gain entry through an unlocked door or window. So, here are some simple and inexpensive ways to secure your family with some of the best budget self security systems for the home.
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Door and Window Sensors
One of the most important aspects of all good home security systems are sensors for the doors and windows. These should be connected to an alarm system so an alert sounds when a window or door is opened. For maximum protection, fit them to all door frames; the front door, side door, and back door, as well as all windows.
Also, keep your first-floor windows locked to make a burglar's job harder - you don't want them to climb straight though!
Motion Detector Lights
Outdoor lights are another cheap yet effective way to keep your home safe, as the majority of break-ins take place when it's dark.
Lights with a motion sensor will automatically come on when movement is detected outside, so you'll be able to see any unwanted visitors, and they will hopefully run off so as to not be seen!
Position lights around your house, covering doors, the driveway, and windows if possible.
Trusted Neighbor
Try leaving spare keys with a friend on the street rather than under a doormat or potted plant by the door. They could also keep an eye on your house when you're on vacation, perhaps popping in each to check that everything is fine.
Motion Sensors
We've already seen how you can install motion detector lighting, but there are other options, too. For example, motion detecting cameras and alarms are also available and will inform you of an intruder right away!
Neighborhood Watch
Another great, affordable way to protect yourself against a home invasion is to enlist the help of your neighbors. If everyone is looking out for one another and reports any suspicious activity straightaway, the whole street will be safer. Many neighborhood watches are supported by the police, too, so you can have a direct line of contact.
Lock Your Garage Securely
Garage doors are a common entry point - not only could thieves steal or damage your car but they could also enter your home through the internal garage door.
If you have a garage door opener, ensure it is secure and that you take the keychain remote with you. Don't leave it in your car in case burglars break in to your car on the driveway and use it to access the rest of your home!
Similarly, if you store valuables such as tools in the garden shed, be sure to secure sheds with screws or extra locks. Shed doors can be quit flimsy on their own, so it's worth taking these extra precautions if there are any high-cost items inside.
Limit Information on the Answering Machine
Here's some good news - protecting your home could be as simple as removing any personal information from your home phone's answering machine. For example, you shouldn't leave a message saying that you're out of town for a few days. Otherwise, would-be intruders will know the house will be empty and could seize the opportunity.
Do Not Leave Access to Ladders
If you have any ladders lying around outside your home, securing them should be your top priority. Lock them in a shed or garage if possible to make it more difficult for a potential intruder to break in to the upper floors of your home to access valuable items such as expensive electronics or jewelry that may be in your bedroom.
Similarly, avoid leaving any tools, particularly a pry bar outside your home. Burglars could use these to break in and steal your valuables - they tend to look for easy targets!
Security Camera
Just a couple of strategically-placed cameras can keep your home safe and secure - as we've said, thieves prefer an easy job so a camera is sure to be a strong deterrent.
With home automation, you can connect cameras to your Wi-Fi network. This will allow you to access video footage from your mobile whenever and wherever you are, so you can keep an eye on your home when you are at work or on vacation.
Fake security cameras
If you can't afford a safety camera system to protect your home and family, fake cameras can still help keep strangers away. Some look highly realistic and can help keep a burglar away. Although you won't be able to use any video footage to find the thief should they enter your property, having the camera in place is a great way to deter them in the first place.
FAQs Budget Home Security
Still looking for some more cheap and simple home security hacks? Here are some final tips to help keep your family safe.
Can I secure my windows at home?
Yes, there are many inexpensive door and window alarms on the market that can help prevent a thief from entering homes via the window.
You should also keep every window locked from the inside if locks are fitted - keep the keys with your house key so they aren't accessible to a burglar!
How to secure exterior doors and sliding doors?
There are a few ways to reinforce your doors. To check how strong your door is, remove the strike plate and check the screws. They should have screws at least three inches long for maximum security.
There are some indoor protections worth doing, too. Always keep sliding doors locked from the inside, and consider fitting a rod into the tracks to prevent it from sliding open from the outside.
Are there locks that are secure from bolt cutters?
Even if you keep everything properly locked, there is still a chance that bolt cutters could be used to break a lock, particularly padlocks on sheds and garages.
However, if you are willing to invest in a high-quality padlock, it should be resistant to bolt cutters. A shorter, enclosed shackle can't easily be accessed by bolt cutters. Or, choose a lock made from the strongest materials such as titanium.
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