Are you interested in purchasing a home security system? Many folks buy one without really needing one. There are small things you can do to stay safe, like locking doors, that can really protect you.

Always make your house appear to be occupied. You can buy timers to have radios, TVs, lights and other electronics go off and on at different times. This helps to create the illusion that someone is presently at home. This is an excellent technique that helps avoid robberies while keeping the property safe.

Does your dog stay outside while you are gone? Store the spare key with them. Attach your key to your dog's collar, ensuring that it can't be seen. Especially if pets don't like strangers, this can be a useful way for having easy access to your house.

The first step in making your home more secure is to change out your locks. Maybe you had a roommate move out or have a disgruntled ex-lover, changing the locks is the best way to keep yourself safe. It shouldn't cost too much, and the process can be completed very quickly.

Find a home security company you can trust. If the installers make you feel uncomfortable, heed your feelings. Don't hesitate asking for another technician or get another company. You want the system to make you feel like you're more comfortable.

If you live more out in the country, you may think that you're not at risk. Some people think that the people out in the country without neighbors are actually at a much greater risk. Still, many believe that rural environments are less frequently targeted by burglars.

Make certain no one can see your valuable belongings through windows and doors. It may be great to have large windows with a view, but this means that people can look in. Keep your windows covered and your belongings private.

Your door frame should be replaced if the wood around it is rotting. Anyone hoping to enter your home can very easily do so by just prying away the rotted wood. Wood that is beginning to rot should always be replaced to make sure your home stays safe.

After moving into a pre-owned apartment or home, change the locks. They previous occupants may have made copies of the keys. For maximum security, buy your own locks and install them yourself. This way you can be certain nobody else has a key.

Any time you let a stranger into your home that is doing some kind of work, it is best to ask for references. Do not hesitate to hire someone to run a background check if you have doubts. You can't always be sure that maids, service workers or contractors are honest, and therefore giving out keys can be a big error.

Motion-sensitive exterior lighting is a must. In the evening hours, this lighting can provide extra security and an economical way to light your front entrance way when you arrive. When they are positioned correctly, they make it pretty much impossible for intruders to get to your house unnoticed.

Having light on in your home at night will scare crooks away. They don't want anyone to see them. A well-lit home will make it hard for intruders to hide and take your valuables without being detected. Keep lights on during the night.

Use the Internet to find a reliable home security company. Browse through different websites and seek out customer reviews about different services and packages. After narrowing down your top five choices, you can then take the next step by contacting each one.

Get a custom-designed plan that fits your needs by having the security company do a site visit in your home. Each homeowner has different priorities in terms of home security. Doing this helps you get the best security you can get from the company, helping you to relax.

Are your house numbers visible from the street? It is important for the authorities to find your address in the event of an emergency. Happily, it's quick and easy to fix this problem.

A home alarm system could be your best option. Nonetheless, you might need to begin instilling some different habits in your household. Check out all your choices to know which ones are right for you.