Making A Security Checklist For Your Home

When making sure a home is secure, the residents of the home may not think of everything they need to check, especially if he or she is going on vacation. A security checklist is an excellent way to ensure that a home will be as secure as possible by being written when a homeowner isn’t as frazzled as before leaving for a trip, and being complete. There are several things that should go on a security checklist such as:

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Lighting – This part of the security checklist covers many things including making sure every outside door is well lit, having timers on indoor lights to go on and off at natural times, and making sure no lights are on continually.
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Locks – On a security checklist, locks are very important because it not only covers things like working locks on all outside doors, but evaluating locks on those doors to see if they are too difficult to open in case of fire.
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Doors – This can range from sliding glass doors, to front doors, to garage doors. Your security checklist should include making sure all doors are secure and have a back up locking mechanism if the first locking mechanism on the door is not very secure.
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Windows – A section about windows should include making sure they are all closed, locked securely, and that curtains are drawn in rooms with expensive items such as televisions or computers.
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Landscaping – The landscaping portion of a security checklist should be concerned with the appearance of your home. It should look neat and well cared for, as if someone is home. You should also make sure all branches are trimmed back from windows, and that all tools are put away before leaving.
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Neighbors – The neighbors section on a security checklist can include speaking to your neighbors about potential risks, letting them know you’ll be gone, giving trusted neighbors a house key, asking them to house sit, asking them to help maintain the appearance that someone is home, collecting your mail/newspapers, or simply keeping an eye on your home. This can also include learning about what neighborhood watch programs are in place in your area.
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Alarm system – If you have an alarm system, you will need a part in the security checklist for it. Make sure before your vacation that your alarm system is in good working order. You will also want to add a reminder to set your alarm before leaving.
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General security – This can be a section of things to check just before leaving the home. This part of the security checklist can include a last minute check of doors and windows, making sure all valuables are out of sight, and making certain that the alarm system is on.

Every security checklist is going to be different, depending on what areas you have to deal with. If you don’t have any trees in your yard, obviously the landscaping portion will be different than someone who has trees everywhere. It is all dependent upon your personal needs. But, if you use a security checklist, you are going to feel safe when leaving your home, knowing you covered all your bases.