When I was twelve years old, our house was burglarized. I remember the day very well. I was dropped off at my house after school and when I walked in, the house was a mess. I stood there for a moment not realizing what was going on, but then it clicked — we were robbed. I ran to the neighbors, who immediately called the police.
As I was just a child, this was a very traumatic experience, and it took me a long time (years!) to begin to feel safe again in my home. I always thought, “what if I was home alone when this happened?” and “what if the robbers came back”?
My parents immediately installed a complete alarm system with home security signs in the front yard. It made me feel safer … and thankfully we never had a break in again.
Now that I’m a parent, my family’s safety is my number one priority. I remember the feels of insecurity I had as a child, and I don’t want my daughter to go through the same experience. This is why we have a home security system installed with all the bells and whistles, including motion detectors.
Technology has come a long way, and now we can monitor our home even when we’re away with our cell phones. Having an alarm system installed is the number one way to thwart off thieves!
Here are a few more tips for home safety when you’re away:
- Always keep a few lights on when you leave the house — whether you’re leaving for just 20 minutes, or a week. Invest in automatic timers if away for long periods.
- When away for an extended period. Ask a family member or friend to check on your home every few days and take in the mail and newspapers.
- Tell neighbors you trust (or neighborhood watch) that you will be away and to keep an eye on your home.
- Make sure windows and deadbolts are locked.
- Don’t leave spare keys under doormats or flower pots.
- Don’t advertise when and for how long you will be gone on social media accounts.
It’s also a good idea to keep an inventory of items in your home, with photos, in the event your home is compromised.
This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
