HOME SECURITY: PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS

by Team Broady on Wednesday, August 17, 2022

How far do you need to go to protect your family and your belongings? Some people dream of living in a gated community where individuals entering the neighborhood are ‘cleared’ through security. The desire is not necessarily to be separate from others and strangers, but more so it is the natural instinct to keep our families and assets as safe as possible. Home security requirements are absolutely dependent on a property’s location and they are an important consideration when calculating its value. For the average Canadian homeowner their property is by far their largest asset, which unfortunately, is the most common target for burglaries around Montreal and across Canada. The statistics don't lie: homes that aren't protected by alarm systems are much more likely to be broken into than those with an alarm system installed. 


A security system is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself from break-ins, since it's often harder for criminals to determine whether or not there's someone home at all with an alarm going off than if they just try knocking on doors or windows first. Installing a home alarm system is simple and affordable. A professional will install it and show you how to use it. Have the system set up so an alert is sent to your cell phone when the alarm gets triggered. Home security systems are a legitimate problem for burglars because they’re likely going to set it off and police will be called – this deters them from breaking into houses with alarms in the first place! If your budget allows, your alarm system provider may offer a private security service who, depending on location, will promptly arrive on site to get a ‘visual’ and if required execute a perimeter inspection of your property. Having an alarm system installed can also reduce your home insurance costs, and can be a worthwhile investment in more ways than one. 


9pm Routine


The 9pm routine is encouraged by police officers who advise homeowners to enact a routine to remove valuables from their vehicles, lock their vehicle doors, lock the doors to their residences, turn on exterior lights and activate all alarms and security systems. The 9pm rule is considered a basic indicator to determine if someone is home. For many homeowners, especially those in high rise condominium properties, a simple lamp on a timer is often enough to tell the world I am home. It is surprising how many people consistently return home between 5-6pm, turn the lights on and then ritualistically shut down their house at 9pm.


Ensure Vehicles Are Locked


To prevent car theft, it's important to make sure that your vehicle is locked. Much of the crime in upscale neighborhoods occurs where an unlocked vehicle allows not only the theft of valuables in the vehicle and access to important information like license, name and address, but also gives criminals control of your garage door opener, which then provides them entrance to your home. Here are a few other areas to consider:

-Lock the trunk.

-Lock the glove box.

-Lock all compartments under seats and in console boxes.

-Lock fuel caps on gas tanks (especially SUVs).


Close Garage Doors and Windows


Garage doors should always be closed and locked at all times. If you have a garage door opener, make sure to set it so that it will automatically close the door if you forget. Consider proper storage units in your garage with cupboards and locks. Windows are also susceptible to being broken into so they must be kept locked and alarmed if possible. Windows can easily be pried open by thieves looking for an easy way in or out. Close blinds on the ground level and angle venetians on the second floor strategically to provide the best view of your property.


Turn On Exterior Lights


The first thing a burglar will look for when they're casing your home is whether or not it's well lit. If you have lights on that are motion activated, solar powered, battery powered and wired into a security system then the chances of them targeting your home are less likely. If there are any questionable characters snooping around your property at night, motion sensitive lights work with great effect.

Beware of Dog Sign on Fence


The ‘Beware of Dog’ sign is a great way for you to protect your home and pets from intruders. There are many different types of Beware of Dog signs, but the ones that we use are designed specifically for home security. They are affordable and there are many styles with several message options. A sign that states “Warning! You are on camera” will make individuals question any ill intent on your property. 

Fake Camera


If you're looking to add some home security without spending too much, fake cameras are an excellent option. They're inexpensive, easy to install and can serve as a good deterrent against burglars in the event that you don't have a proper security system. When installing your own fake camera, be sure that it's mounted high enough up so that it doesn't look out of place.

Conclusion


We hope these tips help to make you feel safer in your home. It’s important to remember that burglars are opportunistic and will take advantage of any weakness in your security system. However, if you are like most Canadians and live in a fine community, a good home insurance policy and a basic alarm system should be adequate. At TEAM BROADY, we understand what helps to make a home feel safe and we take great pride in providing our clients comfort and security in their real estate transactions. Let us help you with your home buying and selling needs. We can be reached at 514-613-2988 or by email at info@teambroady.ca.