Home Security Is On My Mind Every Day

30 April, 2010

Mark Lowry

If you're not pre-occupied with the many issues of home security, chances are you're probably not a new dad like I am. I find myself thinking about all the things I need to consider, and take care of, and fix, and trim, and get rid of so my home will be safer for my newborn. What was happening, however, was that I was spending more time thinking about what needed to be done, and less time actually doing them. The problem? I was simply overwhelmed and didn't know where to start. Thankfully, I realized this and started to write each thing down as I thought it, and then started to categorize my list.

I had outside things, and indoor items; fire detection and burglary prevention. Before too long I actually had a comprehensive list of things I needed to accomplish, so I prioritized them and started checking them off my list.

I started with some easy things that I had deemed important. Mainly, new locks on all my doors and windows with very tight control over the distribution of the keys. I installed very strong deadbolt locks on all my exterior doors, and made sure each window was equipped with sash locks and a rod or dowel inserted into the track to prevent each window from being slid open from the outside. The only spare keys to the deadbolts are in safekeeping with a trusted neighbor. This is a solution that works very well for us.

Next, I tackled some yard work. I'd been meaning to trim some hedges as well as to move some yard ornaments to some other places in my yard. Burglars look for hiding places, and things like hedges, bushes, shrubs, birdbaths, and swing sets can offer great cover if not properly taken care of. I spent the better part of a weekend getting my yard to a point that it not only looked great, but left me feeling like I'd accomplished my goal.

I installed a two-floodlight system in my yard, which is triggered when motion is detected. Two very bright floodlights now light up my backyard, removing virtually any possible hiding place. The last thing a would-be burglar wants is to suddenly be illuminated in the act of sneaking on to someone's property. This was simply and inexpensive and I'm happy to have it crossed off my list.

Finally, I had a home security system professionally installed and subscribed to ADT monitoring. I felt like this was a no brainer and mandatory for the overall protection of my new child. I paid particular attention to having the windows secured with window sensors. They not only notify me if a window has been opened, but also if one has been shattered. Instant notification of an intruder is the key to any home security system.

Do everything you can to secure your home and property. Make a list if you have to and just start knocking things off one at a time. An ADT monitored home security system can make your home a fortress that will have burglars looking for an easier target.