Whether you have
just purchased your first home or you’ve recently become aware that your
existing system requires a considerable overhaul, ensuring that your property
is completely secure should take absolute priority. To many, this seems like a
complex, high-pressure procedure that could easily be undertaken incorrectly,
leaving them exposed. While this is possible, it doesn’t have to be that way if
you understand everything that is required. That’s why NLS Security has put
together this quick and easy checklist to ensure that you’ve taken all
necessary steps to securing your home. Read on to discover all the ways you can
keep your home and belongings safe.
1. Take Note of Every Possible Entry Point
Anything from a
tiny bathroom window to a grate above an exterior basement door could prove a
weak point for an opportunistic burglar. Methods of breaking and entering are
getting ever more sophisticated, so be sure to write down any area where your
home could be accessible to infiltration from the outside world, however
unlikely.
2. Exterior Door Locks
It is always a
good idea to fit your main front and back doors with at least two locking
mechanisms. A consistently popular and effective combination is either a
cylinder or mortice lock alongside a night latch (also known as a Yale lock
after one highly prolific, high-quality manufacturer). However, you should also
consider options for keyless entry. A digital lock with a keypad means you will
never again find yourself locked out having misplaced your key, while biometric
systems allow you entry using just your fingerprint - something no other
individual will be able to replicate. It may also be worth your while to insert
a viewer into your door to allow you to check who is visiting.
3. Window Locks
Windows are one
of the most easily accessible points on a house, and are therefore preferred
entrances for burglars. You should not rely on a simple latch to keep your home
secure; locking casement handles are a great addition to your window security
and are available in a variety of different styles and colours to match your
decor. It’s also important to ensure that all skylights in the building are
totally secured.
4. Interior Door Locks
Not only does the
ability to lock bedroom doors add to your personal security, it also allows for
enhanced privacy - as do high quality locks for bathrooms. In households with
children, you may also need to consider locking storerooms, drawers and
cupboards where chemicals and potentially dangerous implements are kept, for
the sake of your youngsters’ safety. Simple, strong barrel bolts often serve
this purpose perfectly.
5. Other Locks
You should also
seriously consider securing any external structures that house valuable items,
from sheds to bike stores to animal hutches. Padlocks, chains and heavy duty
mortice locks are ideal for this purpose. Conservatories are another element of
the home that is often relatively neglected in terms of security - however,
they are also a popular entry point for break-ins, so it’s important to look
into a sturdy multipoint or digital uPVC door lock to prevent this.
6. Safes
If you keep
valuable items in your home, from cash to jewellery to electronics to
documents, there is a diverse array of security boxes - or safes - available to
choose from to ensure that everything is securely stored away. Safes can
feature manual, combination, digital or biometric locks - and you can select
from many other features too, including fireproofing and digital content
protection. There are safes in existence that can be “sunk” into the floor of
your home and disguised with furniture, so your valuables can be kept
completely out of sight.
7. Electronic Security Systems
NLS Security
strongly recommends the installation of a high quality alarm system in your
home in case of an emergency, so it’s definitely worth shopping around to find
the option that is best for you and your family. You can also choose to add
close circuit television (CCTV) or other security cameras, allowing you to keep
an eye on your property, deter criminal behaviour and report any incidents with
evidence to hand.
If you want to know more
about securing your home or upgrading your current locks and security boxes,
all you need to do is contact NLS Secu
rity
today on 0191 238 6000 for expert assistance and advice from their team of
friendly and knowledgeable specialists. The company also specialises in key
cutting, safe installation, maintenance
and engineering, lock replacement, access control and automobile keys
