If you value the safety of your home then you are not alone. Home security is a major concern for homeowners globally. A home is supposed to be exactly that, a safe place for you and your family. This is why maximizing the protection that your home provides is integral to homeownership.
Speaking of home security, it is a broad concept. This is because there are many different types of dangers that lurk in and around your home. Some of these dangers are frequently overlooked due to the low possibility of their occurrence, yet they pose a very real threat.
Dangers that threaten the security of your home and endanger you or your family include everything from robberies, injuries sustained from accidents when repairs are not done on time, or just extreme weather conditions, like snowstorms. Your house must be equipped to prevent these from occurring as much as possible. Some 6,000 people in the UK die from injuries from accidents that happen inside their own homes and it is estimated that there is a burglary every two minutes. These figures are very worrying and indicate just how compromised home security in the UK is. Homeowners must invest in making their homes safer.
Ways to Maximize Home Safety and Security
Most people spend a significant amount of money on improving the security of their house. Home renovations frequently include the integration of digital devices that improve the security of the house or repairs that reduce the probability of causing accidents.
Navigating home safety can be confusing as you may feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options regarding various measures that provide security. it is essential to break down the safety measures into categories based on the kind of protection they provide.
Here are the major security measures and the kind of safety they provide:
· Security Measures to Keep Intruders Away
The threat of burglars is by far the most serious safety concern that homeowners have. Considering that data shows that there is at least one home burglary every 106 seconds in the UK, the fear of intruders is well-placed.
Following are some simple ways to protect your home against intruders:
Security Cameras: Close-circuit cameras are affordable and easy to install. They allow homeowners to keep an eye on and around their homes. Security cameras are very useful for all kinds of crimes, not just burglaries, for example, you can keep a close watch on hired help like babysitters or pet sitters.
Security System: A security system goes a step beyond having security cameras placed around the house strategically It combines the use of cameras, sensors, and wireless connectivity to raise an alarm and alert authorities if it detects anything suspicious. Security systems are costlier than installing cameras alone but they are much more reliable and useful in preventing intruders from entering your home.
Window Locks: Windows are weak points and usually present an ideal way of entry for intruders. It is integral for windows to have locks so you can shut them securely throughout the day. Locking windows adds an extra layer of security and makes it difficult for thieves to enter through the window.
Bolts on Doors: Getting all the latest security measures is fine, but safety does not always have to be expensive. One of the best ways to ensure the safety of your house is by having bolted doors. Bolts on doors add an extra layer of security since these make it tough for intruders to make an entry by breaking down the lock. A little DIY and you can install the bolts on doors yourself.
· Safety Measures to Prevent Injuries
Robbers and intruders are not the only threat to the safety of your home. Safety measures that make your home a safer place to live include:
Regular Repairs and Maintenance: Many accidents happen due to faulty construction or failure to do repairs on time. A leaky faucet can result in a wet floor that can lead to slips and falls. A damaged floor can also cause falls, while a weakness in the structure of the house can have even more disastrous consequences. Ideally, homeowners should monitor their houses regularly for any necessary repairs.
Gas Safety Checks: Fires are a major concern since most homeowners use gas appliances for cooking and heating. Homeowners must get their gas safety checks done annually; it is already mandatory for landlords. Gas safety certs provide the peace of mind that your gas safety is optimized.
Smoke and Gas Detectors: While it is important to get gas safety checks done regularly, it is recommended you get smoke and gas detectors installed for additional safety purposes. Both these devices are affordable and anyone can install them. Remember to make sure the batteries are working properly at all times so the detectors can do their job.
Pest Control: Most pests are not a serious threat as they damage and destroy property but do not pose a danger to human life. However, in some cases, certain pests can be extremely harmful. For example, if someone is allergic to being stung by a hornet, having a hornet hive nearby is a serious health concern. Some types of spiders are also highly venomous. It is better to prevent pests and mold from getting in or around your home. Call in professionals to take care of the issue before the situation worsens.
Elderly and Child Safety: If you have young children, pets, or elderly to care for then you may need to implement additional safety measures. Measures like sealing off electrical switches, installing baby gates on the stairs and the kitchen, or having additional grab bars in the bathrooms. The list is a long one and you can pick and choose the devices and products that are suitable for your needs.
· General Safety Measures
Home safety is not just about buying and installing gadgets or having your home maintained in good condition, there are some general safety measures as well that anyone can adopt. These consist of:
Being Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep a close watch on your neighborhood and ask neighbors to do the same. If anything seems out of the ordinary, report it to the concerned authorities immediately so swift action can be taken.
Request for Improvements: It is not enough to have your house in good condition; the area surrounding your home also matters. Request local authorities to keep the neighborhood well-maintained. If the streetlights are not working properly, complain so the issue can be resolved. Get neighbors on board to expedite the process.
Making Your Home a Safe Haven
Many safety measures have been detailed above. The good news is that it is not necessary to have all these safety measures implemented. If you have a security system in place, then you may not need to install extra locks. Homeowners can choose and customize their home security plan according to their specific situation and needs.
Homeowners living in areas prone to fires or in houses that are old need to be more vigilant when it comes to repairs and maintenance. Home safety is not a standard concept, some security measures are more common, like locks on doors and windows, but as homeowners, you have the ultimate choice on how to maximize the safety of your house.