Making sure your house is safe and secure is one of the primary responsibilities of being a homeowner. There are a few major things to keep in mind when safeguarding your home. Here are some tips that should help St. Louis homeowners rest easy knowing their houses are safe and sound:

Secure the Exterior

Statistically, most home burglaries occur when a door or window has been left unlocked. Check the exterior doors—the frames should be strong, and the hinges should be protected. If the house had a previous owner, you’ll want to change the locks to ensure that no one else has a key. If any of the doors have a mail slot or dog door, make sure that the dead bolt can’t be accessed by reaching through them. Sliding glass doors can further secured by adding a dowel or metal bar into the door track. The windows on the bottom floor will be the most likely point of entry if they aren’t secure. Test all the locks, and if they appear flimsy, replace them with something more durable. If you’re concerned that certain windows are too easily accessible, you can add safety bars.

Improve Outside Lighting

By installing lights in the front and back yards, driveway and along the pathways, you’re creating a well-lit space that will act as a deterrent for vandals and burglars from choosing your home as a target. To minimize energy cost and consumption, choose motion-activated or solar-powered lights.

Add a Security System

Security system options are countless, and the system you choose will be based on the level of protection you require. If you choose a security-system provider, the provider will generally alert the authorities if there is a breach of any kind, whether you’re home or not. If you choose a DIY system, you’ll typically be able to monitor your home from any smart device whether home or away. Doorbell cameras have proven to be an affordable deterrent in the past couple years. Your choice will largely be determined by your lifestyle and your budget.

Know Your Neighbors

Even if you don’t know all of your neighbors, you already have something in common — your concern for a safe neighborhood. If you don’t know some of your neighbors, make an effort to introduce yourself. Developing a relationship with the neighbors increases the likelihood that they’ll keep an eye out on your house, and let you know if they see anything suspicious.

Keep the Yard Maintained

Keep your trees and bushes trimmed. An unkempt landscape is the perfect hiding spot for someone who may be casing your home. Choose plants rather than tall shrubs to decorate the areas near windows and doors. Be sure to keep the yard clean and free of debris. Avoid leaving things out that could attract thieves such as tools, hoses, or ladders. Keep everything stored in a locked shed or garage.

Many of these things may seem like common knowledge, but you can’t be too careful with your family’s security. It’s obviously more fun to decorate your home than spending time securing it, but safety is a top priority. Once your safety measures are in place, you and your family can live day-to-day with peace of mind. If you need any local suggestions for landscapers, handymen or a trusted security company, don’t hesitate to reach out; I’d be happy to help.