1. home security systems reviews Invest in an alarm system. An alarm is a good deterrent, as burglars tend to select homes without an a system. Intruders attempting to enter a house with an alarm are likely to flee when the alarm goes off. Some alarm systems give the homeowner a direct link to a live person in the event of an emergency.

2. Replace the locks or have locks re-keyed when you move into a new house. Remember to change the locks on garage, basement and back doors as well. You never know who has had prior access to your home. It’s especially important to have locks changed if you lose your keys.

3. Post a sign to show you have an alarm system, but be sure to keep any wires to that system hidden. Thieves and other intruders will attempt to cut wiring to disable an alarm.

4. When away on vacation, have a friend or neighbor keep an eye on your home, and make sure your house looks lived in. Use automatic timers for lights, and have someone pick up your mail or newspaper. Never post that you’re away from home on social networking sites.

5. Don’t hide a door key in an obvious location such as under the door mat or in the mailbox. Consider leaving the key with a neighbor, or hiding it in the back of the house in an unlikely place.

6. Keep your home well-lit. One of the best deterrents to crime of all sorts is lighting. Criminals tend to select dark secluded locations where they can’t be seen or identified. Choose automatic lights with a motion sensor, and keep walkways well lit.

7. Use heavy duty locks. Deadbolts, security door bars, or door clubs are all options to prevent someone from kicking a door in. Check with your local hardware store for options and installation instructions.