FrontPoint Security Announces 10 Safety Tips for the Holidays
McLean, VA (PRWEB) December 11, 2013 -- With many traveling to reunite with families and friends, it’s a prime time for burglars to pick through empty homes. FrontPoint Security, the nationwide leader in wireless home security, has released a list of its top 10 safety tips to keep homes safe from incident this holiday season.
1. Think like a burglar – Take an objective look at your home and look for potential points of entry that a burglar may use. Don’t overlook obscure entryways such as vents and dog doors because they’re small or difficult to reach; burglars come in all shapes and sizes. Look to see if any tree branches could give access to windows upstairs.
2. Put away any tools – Fallen leaves and snow means rakes and shovels. Make sure to put away any tools after you’re done. Don’t forget about ladders as they can be an invitation to the upper levels of your home.
3. Lock doors and windows – As many as 40 percent of burglaries occur through unlocked doors and windows; by simply locking your doors and windows, you can protect your home. Do not neglect upstairs, as intruders can use ladders and trees to access it.
4. Be clever when hiding spare keys – Keeping an extra “hidden” key outside of the home is risky. Under the doormat, in a planter, or on a light are obvious hiding places. If you must leave a key outside your home, be creative with the location. Better yet, leave it with a trusted neighbor.
5. Know the neighbors – A trusting relationship with the neighbors can be beneficial to both parties. If you’re going away for the holidays, let your neighbors know. Ask them to make it seem like your home is still occupied by picking up mail/packages or making footprints in the snow.
6. Avoid revealing your location on social media – Burglars today are using social media to help choose their targets. You put yourself at risk if you post your location on social media, whether you’re leaving for 10 minutes or 10 days.
7. Light it up – Lights are an effective burglar deterrent. Even if you’re not home, it’s very easy to control your lights remotely. There are many devices that allow you to automate lighting in your home, for safety and to conserve energy. Home security systems also have home automation features with the same capabilities.
8. Close curtains/blinds – It’s nice to display your Christmas tree in a front window for others to see, but avoid putting presents in plain view. While they might be wrapped, large gifts or a big stash are attractive prizes for a burglar. Hide the presents until the night before Christmas or close the curtains and blinds.
9. Check environmental sensors – The colder season bring a number of environmental hazards, but environmental sensors for your home alarm system can eliminate those concerns. Smoke, heat, flooding and freezing can all be detected, so make sure your sensors have fresh batteries.
10. Arm your security system – Many burglaries are successful because the homeowners didn’t arm their security system. Even the best system is useless if you don’t use it. If you frequently forget, think about signing up for a home security system that includes smartphone and online access. Or, purchase a keychain remote for easy, one-button arming and disarming.
For more information on home security, visit the FrontPoint Blog.
About FrontPoint
FrontPoint Security is the leading nationwide provider of interactive wireless home security systems and the only security company protecting every customer with 100% wireless and 100% cellular technology. FrontPoint combines next generation technology with remarkable simplicity and commitment to service, resulting in a safer and unique customer experience. With customers in all 50 states and Canada, FrontPoint Security is one of the fastest growing alarm companies in North America. FrontPoint is a GE Security Authorized Dealer and Alarm.com’s Preferred Dealer for no-hassle security solutions. For more information, please visit http://www.FrontPointSecurity.com or call 855.296.3945.
Cassandra Leszek, FrontPoint Security, http://www.FrontPointSecurity.com, +1 (855) 296-3945, [email protected]
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