Top Blunders in Home Security by Homeowners and Strategies to Prevent Them

Top Blunders in Home Security by Homeowners and Strategies to Prevent Them

In the quest for a secure home, homeowners often make mistakes that can compromise their safety. Here are some common pitfalls and ways to avoid them.

Incorrect Camera Placement

Installing cameras too high or at bad angles can result in poor coverage, missing potential intrusions. Cameras should cover main access points such as front and back doors, windows, garages, and side pathways. It's crucial to avoid placing cameras where there's a reasonable expectation of privacy or where they point directly at neighbors to prevent legal issues.

Insufficient Lighting

Relying on a single floodlight usually at the front leaves other vulnerable areas like side paths and backyards dark, making them easy targets. Installing motion-sensitive floodlights strategically at all key entry points enhances visibility and deterrence.

Overreliance on Single-Point Locks

Using only one simple lock, especially on doors, weakens security. Multiple locking points and secure deadbolts are recommended to make forced entry harder.

Hiding Spare Keys in Obvious Spots

Stashing keys under mats, flowerpots, or fake rocks is a common mistake burglars anticipate. Using a trusted neighbor or a secure lockbox is safer.

Neglecting Doors and Windows

Forgetting to lock all doors and especially upper-floor windows exposes easy access points. Installing window sensors and locking all doors/windows consistently is important.

Lack of Ongoing Maintenance

Security system components require regular upkeep. Cameras need lens cleaning, software updates, and weatherproofing checks. Motion detectors must be cleaned and have strong wireless signals. Door/window sensors need battery checks and dust removal. Control panels require software updates and dust cleaning. Smart locks should be checked for mechanical alignment and wear.

Ignoring System Software Updates

Failing to update camera and control panel software can leave security vulnerabilities unnoticed and reduce recording reliability.

By carefully planning installation locations, covering all vulnerable areas with lights and cameras, using robust locking mechanisms, avoiding common key hiding spots, securing all entry points, and committing to a regular maintenance schedule with updates and cleaning, homeowners can significantly improve their home security and avoid these common mistakes.

Installing the 'best video doorbells' can make a real difference in home security. Simpled Smart locks offer digital access control for doors. Proper planning and thoughtful installation of a security system during home renovation can enhance security.

Awareness of home CCTV laws and garden lighting laws is crucial to avoid unintentional privacy invasions of neighbors. Gravel driveways and paths are a simple, low-cost way to create noise and alert homeowners to unwanted visitors, acting as a top deterrent for intruders trying to move quietly around the property.

High-quality doors and windows that are secure by design can improve home security. Relying too heavily on off-the-shelf, DIY security products without professional design consideration can lead to unreliable protection.

For instance, Amy Willis, editor of Homebuilding.co.uk, had her avocado sink stolen but was able to bring the thief to justice using footage from her Google Nest camera. Anthony Neary, security expert at Safe.co.uk, mentions the common mistake of poor camera placement leading to missed faces or entry points.

The Chrome Conexis L2 smart lock can be unlocked with a key tag, phone tag, or smartphone via the Yale Home app. The Infrared Security Beam from Amazon is an example of external detection for perimeter security. Upgrading to a multi-point locking system is recommended for added protection. Anti-snap cylinders, such as the Thumbturn Euro Cylinder Lock from Amazon, are suggested for enhanced security.

Having a professionally monitored system ensures emergency response when away from home. The Yale Linus smart lock L2 provides keyless entry and auto-locks when the door is closed. Not staying updated with camera software can lead to a false sense of security. Motion-sensor timer set lighting in vulnerable areas such as front doors, back doors, windows, and garage entry points is advised for improved visibility.

[1] Homebuilding.co.uk (2021) Common Home Security Mistakes and How to Avoid Them. [online] Available at: https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/home-security/common-home-security-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/

[2] Safe.co.uk (2021) Common Home Security Mistakes and How to Avoid Them. [online] Available at: https://www.safe.co.uk/home-security/common-home-security-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/

[3] Homebuilding.co.uk (2021) How to Choose the Best Video Doorbell for Your Home. [online] Available at: https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/home-security/how-to-choose-the-best-video-doorbell-for-your-home/

[4] Homebuilding.co.uk (2021) Home CCTV Laws and Garden Lighting Regulations. [online] Available at: https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/home-security/home-cctv-laws-and-garden-lighting-regulations/

[5] Safe.co.uk (2021) Top 10 Home Security Mistakes Homeowners Make. [online] Available at: https://www.safe.co.uk/home-security/top-10-home-security-mistakes-homeowners-make/

1. Homeowners should avoid installing cameras too high or at bad angles, as it can result in poor coverage and potential intrusion blind spots.
2. Strategic placement of motion-sensitive floodlights at all key entry points, such as windows, doors, garages, and side pathways, can enhance visibility and deterrence.
3. Multiple locking points and secure deadbolts are recommended for doors to make forced entry harder, rather than relying on single-point locks.
4. Stashing keys in obvious spots like under mats or flowerpots is a common mistake that burglars anticipate; using a trusted neighbor or a secure lockbox is safer.
5. All doors and especially upper-floor windows should be locked consistently, as forgetting to lock them exposes easy access points for intruders.
6. Homeowners should commit to a regular maintenance schedule for their security system components, including cleaning, software updates, and weatherproofing checks.7.Ignoring system software updates can leave security vulnerabilities unnoticed and reduce recording reliability, potentially compromising home security.

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