The Must-Have Checklist for Home Security in 2022

As we enter the warmer months of 2022, checking and updating your home security should be your number one priority. 

A study by the Bureau of Justice Statistics shows that burglars are more likely to test your home security during warmer months. And contrary to the night robberies that TV shows us, most burglaries happen between 10 am and 3 pm - when most adults and children are least likely to be home. 

While there are many ways to deter intruders, from timed lights to video doorbells, in this article we’ll focus on strengthening your home’s first line of defense through proper lock security. 

Put Your Valuables in a Safe

The average loss of a home break-in is about $2,000, with the average home burglary taking place between 8 - 10 minutes. Intruders have only minutes to find your valuables, most commonly targeting cash, electronics, prescription drugs, jewelry, collectables, and guns. They’re looking for easy to carry, untraceable, high-value items, so consider putting them into a locked safe with a unique passcode to prevent theft.

Check for Old or Broken locks. 

When casing a house, a burglar will often look for old, damaged, or broken locks as a point of entry. In the mind of an intruder, neglected locks mean that your home is likely not equipped with modern alarm systems or other advanced security - so this means you’re an easy target. Replace old locks on every exterior door, and add hardened steel deadbolts. For additional security, upgrade to smart locks with keyless entry and remote control. 

Upgrade to a Smart Garage Door Opener

It’s no secret that the modern burglar is getting tech-savvy, and if they’ve chosen your house as a target, there are ways of replicating your garage door signal to open it while you’re away. To prevent this, consider getting a smart garage door opener. Smart garage door openers are managed through an app on your cell phone or computer. They’ll send you alerts if you leave the door open, or if the door is opened while you’re away, allowing you to monitor your home from any location.

Inspect Perimeter Gates

Make sure all fences and gates are in good repair, closing tightly, and have TWO secure locks on each door - one at the top, and one at the bottom. Always lock your fence’s gates when you’re not using them to enter or exit your property. 

Secure Your Windows and Small Entrances

All of the windows on your home should have working locks, even on the upper levels and especially on the first and lower levels. If you have any sliding windows, consider adding window bars or inserting a rod in the window’s tracks. And although they are small, don’t overlook securing pet doors and mail slots. Any unsecured point of entry makes it easier for an intruder to enter.

Lock Up Your Tools

If you store tools outside, like in a shed or garden house, make sure that they have secure latches to prevent an intruder from utilizing your tools - like your ladder, hammers, screwdrivers, etc. - to break into your home. These locks matter just as much as the ones on your home, so consider upgrading them to keyless locks.

Does your home meet these recommendations? Contact us to repair, add, or upgrade your home security.