Home security is important for everyone, but even more so for seniors. Elderly homeowners can be especially vulnerable to burglaries since some see them as an easy target. But with some simple tips and tricks, you can help prevent theft and burglary.

Some security tips are as simple as changing behavior, like arranging to have your mail held if you will be out of town instead of letting sit at your doorstep, and some involve installing security features which drastically reduces the risk of a break-in. But all these tips will help keep you safe in your own home.

Your Doors Are Your First Line of Defense

No matter how safe you think your neighborhood is, locking your doors and windows is the first step to home security. This doesn’t mean you need to live in constant fear, but locking your doors can give you peace of mind. Why make it easy for a thief?

If you don’t lock your door because you believe you may be accidentally locked out, it is still not a good idea to leave a spare key outside. While you may find it helpful, if you can locate the key chances are a burglar can too. Instead of hiding one, leave a spare with a friend, family member, or trusted neighbor. Or skip the spare key altogether and install a smart lock on your door which means that you will never be locked out again. ASI’s touchscreen door lock uses a unique pin code so that you don’t need to worry about a key at all.

Never automatically open your front door for a visitor. Utilize a peephole or a doorbell camera to see who is on the other side of the door before you open it.  A doorbell camera with two-way audio can also allow you to communicate without ever opening the door.

Proper Lighting Deters Crime

Keeping your home well-lit can help reduce your risk of being a burglary victim since burglars use lights as an indicator that you are home. If you don’t already have them, install exterior lights. When installing lights, keep these tips in mind or defer to a security expert like ASI to place lights in optimal locations.

• Install lighting over all entrances
• Mount the lighting high enough to prevent tampering
• Do not use colored bulbs

Using timers or home automation tools for your interior lights are a great way to show that someone is home and active, even when you are away. But be sure to vary your lighting routine as well so that it appears authentic. If a burglar is casing your home, they may notice that the lights go off and on at the exact same time every night.

Home Automation Makes Security Simple

All the tips and tricks above can be made even easier with a home security and automation system. When you can control your connected devices with the touch of a button, it means they can work smarter to keep you safe. Manually keeping track of all the safety measures you need to take when you are leaving your home, going to bed, or even home during the day can be tiresome. It can leave you feeling uneasy if you can’t remember if you locked the door as you rushed out for work in the morning. With an interactive security system like ASI Connect, you can do everything from your phone or even set automations that adjust multiple devices simultaneously.

Learn more about smart home and security solutions by contacting us today.