Your home is your sanctuary, a place where you can hide away from the world. You want to do all you can to keep it safe and secure. Home insurance can help you maintain your property's integrity in case of damaging incidents like fire, theft, or vandalism. But there are other things you can do to ensure your home stays protected.
Here, Shannon Cutler Real Estate provides some great resources to help you maintain home safety on a budget.
Add Safety and Security Measures to Your House
Prevention is generally cheaper than repairs when it comes to home safety and security.
● Install automatic outdoor lights to deter intruders and protect your home.
● Hire a locksmith to install strong, modern locks that are difficult to pick. Make sure to compare reviews and rates from several professionals in your area before hiring someone.● Install a home security system such as a doorbell video camera or a wired cam with a floodlight.
● If you can't afford a full security system, add signs to your property indicating the presence of security cameras. This has been shown to be enough to deter burglars.
Take a Proactive Approach to Emergency Preparedness
Make sure you have the tools on-site to handle diverse emergencies.
● Have a basic first-aid kit in your home to address potential injuries.
● Equip your property with basic fire prevention gear, like smoke alarms and fire extinguishers.
● For households with kids, be sure to create a family emergency plan, and then practice together several times a year.
● If you have an elderly family member, give them a medical alert system for added security.
Don't Forget to Address Digital Safety and Security
Technology simplifies many daily tasks in the home, but it can also create security gaps.
● Familiarize yourself with the security risks of smart home devices.
● Take steps to protect your home internet networks.
● Follow best practices to minimize smart speaker hacks, such as turning them off when not in use.
Maintaining a safe space at home doesn't have to break the bank. Consult the resources above to keep your home secure. Taking these steps can provide added peace of mind—and that's truly priceless!
Submitted by Natalie Jones