5 Common Home Security Mistakes

Bad Outdoor Lighting and Landscaping

Poorly designed outdoor lighting and landscaping can make it easier for intruders to hide and more difficult for you to see them. If you have trees or bushes in front of your house, ensure they're trimmed. Ensure that all lights around your property work so your outdoor space remains well-lit. Consider installing motion-activated floodlights or spotlights near doors and windows. This will help illuminate areas that would otherwise feel dark and unsafe at night when burglars are most likely to strike.

Having an Alarm That Isn't NBN Compatible

The National Broadband Network (NBN) is a set of technologies that connect homes and businesses to the Internet. If you have an alarm, it must be NBN compatible so you can connect it to other devices in your home. If your alarm doesn't work with the NBN, you won't be able to use any of the smart home features like video cameras or lighting systems.

Failing to Lock Windows and Exterior Doors

If you're not locking your exterior doors, anyone can walk into your house. Almost half of all burglaries occur when no one is home. Therefore, you should ensure that all entry methods remain locked, including garages, windows, and front and back doors. While entry doors usually come with locks, windows may require a lock installation to protect against break-ins.

It's Noticeable Your Family is Away on Vacation

If your family is on vacation, it's important to make sure your home looks lived-in. It's always a good idea to make sure you have timers set for lights and other electronics, so they turn off at a certain time in the evening and then back on again in the morning. Consider putting up some curtains or blinds on windows that overlook your driveway, just in case someone is watching from the street.

Thinking Your Alarm System is Enough to Deter Criminals

Many think a basic alarm system is all they need to protect their homes. But while an alarm system can be an important step toward protecting your home, it's not enough. Conventional surveillance systems can help identify perpetrators after they have robbed you, but they do little to prevent the crime. Likewise, old-fashioned alarm systems may not be a deterrent to seasoned criminals who know how to enter and exit a property very quickly before police arrive. Advanced video monitoring systems like those used by ArcEye Property Defense utilize smart technology to avoid false alarms and discover suspicious activity before someone even attempts to shatter a window or break through a door. Police can arrive on the scene while the criminal is still in the act of breaking and entering or while they're still staking out the property.

Do You Need Proactive Video Monitoring for Your Home's Security?

If you want to ensure your home stays safe from intruders, thieves, and vandals, call ArcEye Property Defense to discover how our virtual guards in Pinellas Park, FL can protect your valuables and loved ones. Our friendly staff is always available to answer your questions. We offer solutions for all homes and businesses and can customize our services based on your needs.