This article was previously published on September 2, 2014 and updated for comprehensiveness and accuracy.

In today’s market, there are so many different home security options available. Whether you’re upgrading your current home security system or comparing features for a new one, evaluating options may seem like a daunting task.

When it comes to home security, there are numerous factors that come into play, including your neighborhood, property size, number of residents, and more. Fortunately, Vector Security is here to help you along the way. Here’s our home security checklist to help you assess your home’s security and identify improvement options.

Outdoor Security: Secure the Perimeter

As you begin to assess your home’s security needs, start with the outside. Your perimeter is the first point of contact for an intruder. Securing your perimeter provides an opportunity to stop an intruder before a crime can occur.

Below are a few helpful ways to ward off would-be criminals:

  • Fences (metal, wood, chain-link, vinyl, etc.)
  • Motion-triggered lights
  • Concealed trash (so outsiders can’t see expensive purchases)
  • Smart landscaping (natural privacy barriers such as trees, large bushes, shrubs, etc.)
  • Outdoor security cameras

A final note...if a crime ever occurs on your property, make sure your home’s address is easily visible from the street. This will aid emergency personnel and police if they need to find your home quickly.

Entry Security: Prevent Intrusion

It is essential to check and secure all entry points into your home. These include windows and doors, as well as possible entry points through your garage, basement, or attic. Thoroughly check your home to see that:

Always remember to lock and arm your home security system. An idle home security system and unused locks will do little to protect you.

Indoor Security: Protect the Core

Your home holds many valuables—some replaceable, some irreplaceable. Protect your home’s interior and all it guards. If not already implemented, consider taking the following safety precautions:

  • Install sensors on valuable items.
  • Strategically place safes to guard smaller valuables.
  • Integrate indoor security cameras to cover key areas inside your home.
  • Use drapes and curtains to shield belongings from prying eyes.
  • Implement alarm monitoring with 24/7 emergency coverage.

The above suggestions will help safeguard your belongings from intruders, trigger alarms someone moves valuable items, provide resources to potentially catch perpetrators, and protect your house with around-the-clock monitoring.

How Vector Security Can Help

A thorough evaluation of your home’s security is important to the safety of your family, pets and belongings. For a formal home security checklist walkthrough, feel free to contact us today to talk to one of our security experts or set up an appointment for a home evaluation.