Tips for Homeowners

Fall season is here and it’s time to revisit home security

• By Wade Gibson
• Sep 19, 2022

Now that summer vacations have come to an end and the skies are getting dark earlier, it’s a good time for homeowners to take a look at their home’s security. Security systems can help consumers maintain a safe and secure property during the cooler months by implementing a few smart tips to detract any unwanted attention.

Take stock of your equipment. As the seasons change, we encourage consumers to inspect their home’s security equipment to confirm that everything is in working order. This includes changing any batteries to smoke detectors and smart locks. It is also a great opportunity to make sure that security cameras are properly recording and storing footage, and double-checking that equipment is secured to your home’s exterior by tightening any screws or mounting hardware.

Install exterior lighting and security cameras. A well-lit property makes it difficult to sneak around—both for the exterior and interior of a home. Exterior lighting, which can be connected to smart home automation systems, not only provides safe entry, but it also helps to deter unwanted visitors who may have bad intentions. Good exterior lighting combined with visible and functioning security cameras are two strong ways to secure the perimeter of your property.

Around-the-clock security system monitoring. Consumers should take a look at self-monitored security systems that they installed themselves, and consider upgrading or adding on professional monitoring so that if an alarm triggers, the local fire or police department will be dispatched. Professional monitoring, like the 24/7 monitoring provided by Brinks Home™, is an affordable way to ensure your home and your loved ones are always protected.

Bring packages inside or install a doorbell camera. More people working from home has led to an uptick in packages being delivered to front doors. Unfortunately, that also means there are more opportunities for someone to gain access to those packages before you have a chance to bring them inside. A common deterrent to packages being stolen from front porches is a doorbell camera. This is a cost-effective and simple way to monitor who is approaching your home’s main point of entry.

Use all the tools available to you. Most modern-day home security systems come equipped with a mobile application. Downloading this app means that consumers can monitor their home’s cameras from anywhere. Whether they are out of town or just down the street at the local high school for a football game, visibility and alerts through a mobile app can make a big difference.

Don’t overlook your lights. Today’s energy-efficient light bulbs make it easy to leave a light on inside your home without having to worry about a fire hazard or drastically impacting your electric bill. Strategically leave lights on in front entryways, hallways, or living rooms. There are dozens of smart light bulbs and lighting options available on the market today, so this is a good way to keep your home safe.

Ultimately, home security is up to the individual. Homeowners should take a proactive approach to maintaining their property and keeping it from being an easy target. There are numerous simple and cost-effective ways to create a secure environment both inside and outside the home and we are happy to be a part of an industry that contributes to the safety of our communities.

This article originally appeared in the September / October 2022 issue of Security Today.