Practicing as an architect in New York City, I often discuss home security with my clients. My friend Thomas Walker at Home Safety Hub has put together the following advice.
Secure Your Urban Home With These Safety Strategies by Thomas Walker
Home security is a concern for many Americans, but it can be challenging to understand the ins and outs of keeping an urban house safe. There are so many aspects to consider that it can be overwhelming to try and create a security plan, especially if you own a large property or have multiple expensive belongings, such as vehicles.
The good news is there are several things you can do to ensure that your home is secure against outside threats. You might start by creating a list of all of your valuables and ensuring that your insurance company has any essential information, which will give you peace of mind. Then, you can break down your security needs according to cost and different areas of the home so you can find the best tools for your needs. Here are a few ideas on how to get started.
Protect your home business
If you run a business out of your home, you may be particularly vulnerable to thieves. Armed robberies can have a devastating impact on small businesses, and they are often targeted due to a perceived lack of security. By taking certain steps to protect your home business, you can avoid a potentially dangerous situation. Never keep large amounts of money in your home, even in a safe. If you make frequent bank deposits, vary your routine. When working at home, always be wary of unexpected visitors, and ask for ID from individuals claiming to be there for repairs. If you travel for work, take precautions by sticking to main roads and keeping your cell phone handy and charged.
Look closely at the exterior of your home
Whether you have a home-based business or simply spend a lot of time there, it’s crucial to take a close look at the exterior and check for possible security camera blindspots, easy points of entrance for thieves, and hiding spots. Tall shrubs, for instance, might seem like a good idea for privacy, but they can also provide cover for anyone who doesn’t want to be seen. Do regular checks to make sure fencing and gates are in good condition. Exterior motion-sensor lighting is extremely beneficial for home security, but it should also be well-maintained.
Scatter your valuables
Where the interior of your home is concerned, it’s a good idea not to keep all of your valuables in one place. If possible, scatter them in secure spots around the home; this way, if there is a break-in, the thieves won’t get everything. Think about a few areas that aren’t popular hiding spots, such as beneath a false-bottom drawer or loose bathroom tile. If someone does break in, they’ll be looking in the most obvious places, such as in a safe or under a mattress.
Consider a home renovation
With crime rates going up in many areas these days, it may give you more peace of mind to make a bigger change, such as a home renovation that will allow for a panic room or simply reinforce weaker areas of the house. Create a budget and think about what your specific needs are, then connect with Mark Holmquist to work on a plan for changing up your home’s safety features. Taking steps to make your urban home safer can be daunting, but it can also provide comfort in these uncertain times. Think about how you can alter both the interior and the exterior of your house for safety and ensure that your home-based business is safe from armed robberies by taking the right precautions.