Four Ways To Keep Your Home Secure In The Winter
The cold winter months can pose a few unique home security concerns, but a bit of planning and some help from your local locksmith service can ensure your house is safe during the cold weather. Here are some of the things you can do to make sure your house is ready for the change in seasons.
Arrange For Regular Snow Removal
Sidewalks and driveways that are not shoveled can be a sign to potential thieves that your home is not occupied. Because snow can pile up quickly, even a being gone during the day can leave your home a target. Work with a local snow removal company to have your driveway and sidewalks cleared whenever there is a significant snowfall, and ask if the company can also remove snow buildup on your home's security cameras.
Have Your Window Locks Inspected
During the summer months, you may have kept your windows unlocked and open, which means you might not even be aware if one of the locks is not functioning. During the winter, you'll need to keep the windows closed and locked, so be sure all of the locks are in good working order. Your locksmith can inspect these locks as well as the locks for your doors to ensure your home is secure. You may also want to have your garage doors checked to make sure they are in proper working order before cold weather hits.
Secure Trash During The Holiday Season
The trash you throw out during the holiday season can be a signal to thieves about the new items in your home. Consider taking boxes for televisions, video games and other high-value items directly to your local recycling center so you aren't advertising what you've recently purchased. You may also want to consider placing locks on your garbage cans (which can be removed on trash pickup day), as this will prevent anyone from sifting through your trash to see what other small items may be inside the home.
Update Your Security Cameras
The days get shorter in the winter months, which means cameras without night vision capabilities won't be able to capture as much activity around your home as you might like. Work with your locksmith to update the camera system so you have day and night recording capabilities. You may also want to add a video doorbell, which can let you see who is at the door before you answer it. This added security measure is ideal for avoiding solicitors while still answering the door for postal delivery personnel and approved visitors.
Talk to your locksmith about any other steps you can take to upgrade your home's security system for the winter months. Be sure to make arrangements with neighbors to check on your home if you'll be away for the holidays, and consider any other things you can do on your own to secure your home.