Summer Home Security Tips

The Home Safety Council offers tips to keep your home safe this summer.

Turn Up the Lights

  • Put bright lights over porches and walkways in the front and back.

Lock It Up

  • All doors to the outside should have working locks.
  • Garage and shed doors need working locks too.
  • All windows should have working locks.
  • Keep all doors to the outside, sliding doors, and windows locked.

Be Able to Get Out

  • Make sure everyone can open all locks from inside your home.
  • Don't have deadbolt locks that lock with an inside key. You need to get out fast if a fire starts. A missing key could trap you inside.
  • Replace inside-key locks with deadbolt locks that have a “thumb turn” instead of an indoor key.
  • Make sure everyone in your family can reach the “thumb turn” latch.
  • Have window locks that open from inside. Do not nail windows shut. Make sure they open easily.
  • If you have security bars on doors and windows, have a “quick-release” latch. This makes it easy to get outside in an emergency.
  • Make sure everyone in your family knows how to use the latch.

Don't Help Intruders

  • Keep bushes and shrubs trimmed under windows so burglars can't hide.
  • Keep ladders stored in a locked shed or garage so they can't be used to climb into your home.
  • Keep shades or curtains closed over garage and shed windows.
  • Keep shades or curtains closed over your home windows after dark.
  • Don't leave toys, tools and equipment in the yard.

When You're Gone a Few Days

  • Make your home look like someone is there.
  • Do yard work before you leave.
  • Have a family member or friend bring in your mail and newspaper while you are gone.

Featured

New Products

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden Door Controls is pleased to announce that, in response to soaring customer demand, it has expanded its range of ValueWave™ no-touch switches to include a narrow (slimline) version with manual override. This override button is designed to provide additional assurance that the request to exit switch will open a door, even if the no-touch sensor fails to operate. This new slimline switch also features a heavy gauge stainless steel faceplate, a red/green illuminated light ring, and is IP65 rated, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use as part of an automatic door or access control system. ValueWave™ no-touch switches are designed for easy installation and trouble-free service in high traffic applications. In addition to this narrow version, the CM-221 & CM-222 Series switches are available in a range of other models with single and double gang heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates and include illuminated light rings.

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.