6 Ways You Can Secure Your Home

While decorating a new home can be an enjoyable task, prioritizing security measures is crucial in today's world where burglaries occur every 30 seconds. To ensure your peace of mind and swiftly return to the more enjoyable aspects of settling in, here are 10 straightforward security precautions you should implement upon moving into your new home in Las Vegas.

10 Simple Ways to Secure Your New Home

1. Set Up a Security System

Every new home should incorporate a security system, be it a simple do-it-yourself setup you've personally assembled or one equipped with professional monitoring and home automation features. The market offers a wide array of home security solutions, including options that fit various budgets and security requirements. Select a system that aligns with your preferences, and assess both your neighborhood and your specific property's security needs.

Keep these factors in mind as well: 

• DIY installation versus professional installation.
• Customer service and brand reputation.
• Smart home capabilities.
• Upfront and monthly costs.
• Extras like smoke and carbon monoxide monitoring.

Some of the best home security systems on the market:

• SimpliSafe- Best home security system of 2023
• Vivint- Best professionally installed home security system of 2023
• Frontpoint- Best DIY system with pro-grade equipment
• Link Interactive- Best for smoke, fire, and CO detection

2. Secure the Doors

Don't aid a burglar in strolling through your front door. Inspect all of your exterior doors to make sure the door frames are strong, the hinges are protected, and if your door has a mail slot, it can't be reached through to access your door lock. If you have moved into a residence that someone else used to call home, change the locks. It is always a comfort to know that strangers out in the world don't have keys to your home.

Recommended reinforcement to shore up your vital entryway:

• Install a deadbolt.
• Add a strike plate.
• Upgrade to smart locks.
• Boost security with a video doorbell.
• Secure a mail slot.

Some of the best smart doorbells on the market:

• Arlo Video Doorbell- Best overall video doorbell
• Nest Doorbell- Best video doorbell without a subscription
• Ring Video Doorbell- Best high-end doorbell cam
• Wyze Video Doorbell Pro- Best value
• Eufy Security S330 Video Smart Lock- Best video door lock

Reinforce sliding glass doors 

Sliding glass doors are a favorite entry point for intruders, given their ease of access and vulnerability. It's essential to safeguard your glass doors. You can opt for a traditional approach by using a window bar or dowel in the track to prevent forced entry. Alternatively, for a more high-tech solution, consider adding a door sensor or glass break sensor. These devices will promptly alert you if there's any tampering with the glass door, potentially deterring would-be thieves.

3. Lock the Windows

Windows are a common entry point for criminals and can be left shut but unlocked. Manufacturer latches on windows aren't always effective, and sometimes can be downright flimsy. If you don't like the looks of your window latches, beef up security with key-operated levers or reinforced window locks.

Other good ideas to help make your windows burglar-proof:

• Reinforce glass with window security film.
• Install window sensors or glass break sensors.
• Add window bars.
• Plant some prickly bushes under first-floor windows.

4. Light Up the Landscape

Vandals, burglars, and other criminals find it uncomfortable and rather inconvenient to be in the spotlight. Keep them all at bay with ample outdoor lighting. Place lights around your front and backyard, along pathways, and near the garage and other outdoor structures. This will help make intruders skittish, and it will aid in cutting down your risk of a stumble on your way up the front steps.

Make outdoor security lights more effective with these tips:

• Use motion-activated lights.
• Save energy with solar-powered lights.
• Use a smart outlet to put outdoor lights on a timer.
• Set up schedules with smart light bulbs.

5. Make Sure to Cover the Basis on the Garage

This is an entry point to your home that is becoming more popular amongst criminals. Even if access to your home is difficult to get to, chances are you have plenty of good stuff stored in your garage. Make it a new habit to lock all doors to the garage, both the interior and exterior. Consider keeping your garage door opener in the house. That way, if a burglar tries to break into your car, it won't be there. If you use a security code to open the garage, make sure you keep it secret and keep it from entering in front of delivery people, neighbors, or anyone else.

Easy ways to secure the garage:

• Upgrade to a smart garage door opener.
• Cover windows to hide anything of value inside.
• Secure garage doors with extra locks.
• Use home automation and don't leave the garage door open.
• Install a driveway alarm.

6. Lock Down your Wi-Fi Network

Home wireless networks are a doorway to your personal and financial information. If you use home automation, it can make your home vulnerable to a break-in. If your Wi-Fi network is connected to smart home gadgets or your personal security system, it can give criminals direct access to your home. Don't leave yourself or your home vulnerable.

Keep hackers off of your home network:

• Secure your wireless router.
• Enable WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) or WPAZ encryption.
• Rename and hide your home network.
• Use a firewall.
• Install antivirus and anti-malware protection.
• Create a strong password.
• Use a virtual private network (VPN), a great way to secure your internet connection.

In conclusion, while the excitement of decorating a new home is undeniable, the importance of prioritizing security measures cannot be overstated, especially in a city like Las Vegas. With burglaries occurring at an alarming rate, ensuring your safety and peace of mind should be a top priority. By implementing these 10 straightforward security precautions, you can fortify your home and create a secure haven for yourself and your loved ones.

From setting up a reliable security system tailored to your preferences and needs, fortifying your doors and windows, and illuminating your landscape, to safeguarding your garage and securing your Wi-Fi network, these measures collectively contribute to a comprehensive home security strategy. Taking these steps will not only deter potential intruders but also allow you to fully enjoy the pleasures of settling into your new Las Vegas home without constant worry. Remember, a well-protected home is a happy home, and your peace of mind is priceless.