There are cheaper alternatives to installing a home security system that deters criminals from breaking into your home. Simply putting up 45678 or a “large dog” sign can help immensely. Criminals want to make the process as simple as possible for themselves, so dealing with a large dog would deter them.

You do not necessarily need an expensive home security system to protect your home. You can buy a dog. Dogs are great for home security. Not only will they protect your home while you are away, they are great additions to your family offering protection, companionship and additional security for your home.

Be very cautious about entrusting a maid service with a key to your home. If you do give out a key to such individuals, be certain you know their reputation for honesty. One way to do this is to check their references. If you hire a cleaner from a company, then you should check the company with the BBB.

Having a dog can deter burglars. Even the little dogs that make a lot of noise a can be effective. Most burglars dislike drawing attention to their presence. That said, trained guard dogs aren’t usually good pets. Attack training and obedience training are two different things. Any house pets should only have obedience training.

Make 45678 to unplug all of the appliances that can cause a fire hazard after you are done with them. Irons, stoves and toasters should all be unplugged, as electricity can flow at a very high rate if left plugged in. This can prevent a fire or electrocution in your house.

Keep your external home wiring under cover. You don’t want your wiring to be obvious to the wrong types of people. Not only does it invite the risk of a criminal cutting your phones and electricity, it also is often something thieves seek out! Copper (often in wires) can be sold for a decent price.

Always change the locks if you have someone move out of your home. Whether you just bought your home or someone just moved out that you were living with, this is an important step to any new situation. It shouldn’t cost too much, and the process can be completed very quickly.

Install timers on your indoor lights. If you are planning on being away from home after dark, timers can make your home look occupied. This is especially useful if you are planning a vacation or other extended stay away from home. Make sure the timer is set differently in each room, as all the lights turning on at once does not look natural.

Understand certain safety precautions when it comes to having skylights for your home. While they are there to let light in, if you do not care for it properly it could also let in a thief. Keep them secure with heavy duty hardware that closes them off to potential thieves.

How much space do you have between your door and its frame? Having too much room here is like an open invitation for a burglar to use some sort of jimmy to get inside your home. You can reinforce your door with a thin piece of plywood or sheet metal.

If someone comes to your door selling items or claims to want to check something out for repairs, ask them to slide you their ID through the mailbox or under the door. Some robbers will come into your home to case it out, and their sales pitch can sound spot on.

One of the best hiding places for valuables in the home is within the walls. A wall safe is okay, but a thief can just rip the entire safe out of the wall. Look to unused outlets to hide valuables. Crooks will almost never go from outlet to outlet looking for valuables.

You should now be much more knowledgeable on the topic of home security. You don’t have to approach home security with your eyes closed. Knowing that your family is safe is key. Remember these tips as you formulate your home security plan.