When is the last time you thought about the safety and security of your home? If it has been a while, then right now is probably a good time to start thinking about it.
Consider whether you do any of the following, and if not, start implementing these simple precautions today:
- Store gas safely. If you keep a propane tank for your gas grill or filled gasoline cans on hand, do not store them inside your home. Put them in a safe and secure place where children cannot access them.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Always take note of the last time you inspected them. Check the batteries and ensure that they are not collecting lint and dust. If you can, integrate them, so that if one goes off in the kitchen, the detectors throughout the house also are triggered. Set a note in your calendar to replace the batteries every 6 months.
- Upgrade to a mailbox with a lock. This will ensure that mail with sensitive information won’t just sit outside for the taking.
- Ensure that extension cords used outside are made specifically for outdoor appliances. Others can cause fires or trip, causing other issues.
- Avoid leaving notes on your front door. Don’t alert intruders to the fact that you won’t be home. This is the case even if you are expecting a package.
- Prepare for power outages. If you experience a power outage, the food in the freezer should last for up to 48 hours. Consider getting a generator and always stock up on nonperishable food.
- Place oily rags outside to dry. Then, store these rags in a metal can with a secure lid. Even if it looks dry, remember that an oily rag is still flammable even if it does not come in contact with flames.
- Never charge a non-rechargeable battery. This could make it explode.
- Add landscaping around windows. To dissuade burglars from getting into windows, plant thorny shrubs and bushes around the exterior of the home.
- Publicize your home security system. Place the company’s decals and signs around your home and yard. Even if you don’t have any alarm, buy and place signs anyway to dissuade burglars.
- Shovel snow from the driveway and create a path to your home. This demonstrates that someone is home. Some town and city ordinances require this or you’ll get fined.
- Set your home phone’s ringer on mute whenever you go on vacation. This way, if a burglar is staking out your home, your ringing phone won’t be a dead giveaway.
- Place a hold on your mail and newspaper before you travel. Don’t let it pile up.
- Ask a friend or neighbor to park their car in your driveway while you are away. This way, a burglar will always think someone is home.
- Avoid posting on social media when you are out of town. Burglars often search social media sites to see who in the neighborhood is away from home.
To discuss these tips and how they can help you protect your home and valuables, contact us today.
Powered by HomeActions for Laura Schein Rossinow, Broker Associate, Keller Williams Realty, Newton, MA
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