How to Improve Home Security

Plano, TX is a relatively safe city in terms of crime statistics. Most crime statistics in Plano are much less than the national average. However, when it comes to burglary and property crimes, Plano is about the same level as the national average. As a result, Delta Locksmith Plano wanted to publish an article on how to take the necessary steps, as an individual home owner, to prevent your house from being broken into. Follow our simple guidelines and you can be more assured of your home security.

Delta Locksmith Plano’s Home Security Advice

Door Locks

Every single time you leave the house, make sure you lock the doors. This sounds obvious, but it doesn’t always happen. Next is to make sure you have the right locking mechanisms on your doors. You should have three lock points (the third is usually a door chain). Delta Locksmith Plano recommends having a deadbolt lock. The deadbolt should be high quality (grade 1 or 2, solid metal with no exposed screws on the exterior), with a throw bolt (the bolt that comes out of the door) at least 1 inch long.

Window Locks

If burglars are unable to enter through the door, the windows are typically the next option. The standard window or patio door latch simply will not deter burglars. Depending on your window type, you will require different window locks. Do you have sliding windows? Windows that drop from a hatch? You can get a dead-bolt-like mechanism or sometimes a screw can actually be highly protective in blocking a window from moving along its track. It is recommended to consult with a professional, like Delta Locksmith Plano.

Home Security Best Practices

Did you know that 58% of burglaries take place in the evening or night and 34% occur over the weekend? When you are away, especially on vacation for more than a single day, there are some good practices you should implement. Firstly, make sure you have an alarm system that is also prominently displayed in an area that will deter potential burglars.

Improving Home Security

Use timers for the lights in your house as that is a common signal that someone is home. Have a neighborhood, family member, or friend, come around your home every few days or so in order to collect mail. If there is a lot of mail in your mailbox, that sends the message that nobody is home. Also, although it is common behavior to leave a spare key under the mat or nearby flower pot, this is also a common spot where burglars will look for keys! Do yourself a favor and only give spare keys to your neighbors, friends, or family.

Delta Locksmith Plano is dedicated to your home security. If you have any questions about any of the above or would like to get a free estimate on how to improve the safety of your property, call (214) 556-1848 or (972) 249-2150.