Day: December 31, 2024

Last Updated on December 31, 2024 by Alarm New England

Most people know basic security steps. These uncommon tips add extra protection. Security experts recommend these methods to stop burglars.

#1 – Hidden Valuables Storage

Thieves expect safes in master bedrooms. Smart homeowners create unexpected storage spots.
Install fake electrical outlets to hide small items. Add secret compartments in kitchen cabinets. Build false bottoms in drawers. Place decoy valuables in obvious spots.
Kitchen cabinets make excellent hiding spots. Most burglars skip kitchens entirely. Install hidden compartments behind spice racks. Store valuables in fake cleaning supply containers.
Bathroom storage works well too. Install hidden wall panels behind towel racks. Use fake shampoo bottles with waterproof containers. Burglars rarely search bathrooms thoroughly.

#2 – Smart Landscaping Security

Plants protect homes naturally. Thorny bushes under windows deter intruders. Strategic landscaping blocks entry points.
Plant these security-enhancing options:

• Rose bushes with sharp thorns
• Holly shrubs near ground-floor windows
• Bamboo screens for privacy
• Gravel paths that make noise

Position motion lights behind plants. This creates confusion for intruders. Trim branches that could help climbers. Keep sight lines clear to entry points.

#3 – Digital Deception Tactics

Smart homes need smart protection. Digital deception confuses tech-savvy criminals.
Create a separate guest WiFi network. Name it something unappealing like “Virus_Infected_Network”. Hide your main network name completely. Change passwords monthly.
Set up fake security cameras alongside real ones. Program smart lights to mimic occupancy patterns. Use automated voice recordings of dog barks or conversations.

#4 – Social Media Safety

Criminals check social media for empty houses. Your posts reveal security weaknesses.

Never post:

• Vacation dates
• Home location details
• New purchase photos
• Daily routines
• Home layout images

Wait to share vacation photos until you return. Remove location data from pictures. Avoid checking in at locations far from home. Review privacy settings monthly.

#5 – Neighborhood Watch 2.0

Modern neighborhood watches use technology. Apps connect neighbors instantly. Communities share security information effectively.
Use these tools:

• Security camera sharing networks
• Community alert apps
• Local police notification systems
• Private neighborhood social networks

Share suspicious activity reports quickly. Create emergency contact lists. Organize virtual neighborhood meetings. Build relationships with local police.

#6 – Psychological Deterrents

Criminal psychology reveals deterrent methods. Small changes affect burglar behavior. These tricks make your home less appealing.
Display security company signs prominently. Add “Beware of Dog” signs even without pets. Place work boots and large dog bowls near entrances. Make your home look actively protected.
Install obvious cameras and hidden ones. Criminals avoid homes with multiple security layers. They prefer easier targets.

#7 – Smart Lock Rotation

Change entry codes weekly. Create temporary codes for visitors. Delete unused codes immediately. Smart locks track who enters your home.
Keep logs of:

• Code assignments
• Entry times
• Failed attempts
• Battery levels

#8 – Window Security Films

Install security films on glass surfaces. These films hold broken glass together. Burglars can’t enter quickly through broken windows.
Benefits include:

• Break-in prevention
• UV protection
• Weather resistance
• Energy savings

#9 – Lighting Sequences

Program complex light patterns. Avoid simple on/off timers. Make your home look naturally occupied.
Create patterns that:

• Vary by room
• Change daily
• Include TV screen effects
• Mirror real activities

#10 – Package Protection

Prevent package theft with secure delivery options. Install lockable delivery boxes. Use smart doorbells with package detection.
Security measures include:

• Delivery instructions
• Camera monitoring
• Secure drop boxes
• Neighbor agreements

Each measure adds protection layers. Combine these tips with existing security. Update your security plan regularly.

Last Updated on January 6, 2025 by Alarm New England

Every homeowner holds the responsibility of protecting their home. A residential security assessment helps make sure you are taking every precaution to protect your family and belongings. This guide explains why your home needs an assessment and how the process is done.

Why Is A Home Security Assessment Important?

Security assessments analyze the vulnerable points of a home from a security standpoint. A security expert will check doors, windows, and any other entry point, making sure each important area is protected. These will be the locations for sensors, cameras, and any other smart security devices. An assessment creates a detailed and custom safety plan that is particular for your property. Also, insurance companies often lower rates after security upgrades. Plus, the cost of an assessment and security system is small compared to potential theft losses. 

Alarm New England provides a free residential security assessment. No cost and no obligation. Our experts can walk you through the assessment over the phone in just a few minutes. Call (857) 445-4010.

The Process:

Step 1: Identify Entry Points

Doors and windows create weak spots in home defense. Burglars target these areas first. A security assessment checks all entry points for vulnerabilities.

The assessment examines:

• What size is the property
• How many doors and ground floor windows
• Whether you need fire or carbon monoxide detectors
• Will you require cameras

Experts identify potentially vulnerable parts of the home like doors and windows. Ground floor windows are the most vulnerable since they are the most easily accessible by a potential intruder. Also, the bigger the home, the more entry points it has. Based on these factors, a security expert will recommend certain equipment. This includes motion sensors and cameras for any areas that need added protection.

Once intrusion detection is covered, the security expert will then suggest any additional protection, like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, flood sensors, or phone app integration.

Step 2: Review Existing Equipment

Do you have existing security equipment in the home that isn’t currently working? During a residential security assessment, a security expert can assess any existing security equipment to see if it is usable. Activating existing equipment can help save you money and maximize your initial investment.

Alarm New England experts can take a look at your home’s existing equipment and determine if you can use that or require an upgrade. Call for a free assessment – (857) 445-4010.

Step 3: Set Up Monitoring and Emergency Response

Quick emergency response saves lives and property. The next step of a security assessment is setting up monitoring to ensure fast emergency response.

This includes:

• Connecting the alarm system to the central station
• Setting up emergency contacts for the monitoring center to notify about any signals

A security expert will check your alarm system’s connection to the central station. The connection is important because any signal from your system will notify the central station, who will then notify any designated contacts to confirm if there has been an emergency, if there is an emergency or if there is no response, authorities will be notified. This quick response can make all the difference in an emergency situation.

Take Action Today

Book a security assessment to protect your home. Experts can find risks you might miss if you take on the task yourself. Getting a free security assessment might .

Regular assessments keep security current. Crime methods change fast. Updates protect against new threats. Your family deserves this protection.

Contact the security professionals at Alarm New England today. Ask about our packages, and start improving your home security today.