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security done Wisely & Wirelessly
A home audit with simple adaptations and smart technologies helps seniors and their families feel secure, providing peace of mind and a safer living space.
Step One: Assess Your Home's Vulnerabilities
- Audit: Walk around your property and identify weak points such as dark corners, overgrown shrubs, and monitor entry points.
- Note: Which areas could benefit from better surveillance, lighting, or clearing for visibility.
Step Two: Outdoor Cameras
- Install budget-friendly security cameras: Look for wireless, battery-operated models, often available at low cost. Many offer features like motion detection, night vision, and smartphone alerts.
- Position cameras strategically: Focus on entry points (front and back doors, windows) and areas that are hard to see (e.g., backyards, alleys).
- Wireless installation: Most affordable models are easy to install, reducing labour costs.
Step Three: Pruning for Visibility
- Trim back: Overgrown shrubs or trees near windows, doors, or pathways to reduce hiding spots for potential intruders.
- Keep windows clear: Overgrown plants can obscure windows, making it easier for intruders to break in unnoticed. Regular pruning improves visibility.
- Use natural barriers: Plant thorny or dense shrubs near fences or windows to deter trespassing.
Step Four: Outdoor Lighting
- Install motion-sensor lights: Motion-activated lights are cost-effective and only turn on when needed, saving energy while surprising potential intruders.
- Use solar-powered lights: These are energy-efficient and reduce electricity costs. Place them around walkways, driveways, and dark corners of the yard.
- Lighting for entry points: Make sure doors and windows are well-lit, especially at night. Low-cost LED lights are bright and long-lasting.
Step Five: Reinforce Doors and Windows
- Window security latches: Inexpensive packs of latched and lockable features can be applied to windows to make them harder to break.
- Use dowels or security bars: For sliding windows or doors, place a wooden dowel or adjustable security bar in the track to prevent forced entry.
Step Six: Install Dummy Cameras or Signs
- Fake cameras: For additional deterrence, inexpensive dummy cameras can give the impression of a well-monitored home.
- Security signs and stickers: Even if you don’t have a full security system, signs that suggest there’s an alarm or surveillance can deter intruders.
Step Seven: Neighbourhood Watch or App-Based Alerts
- Community Group Action: Join a neighbourhood watch group or sign up for community apps (like Next door or Neighbours) to stay informed about local safety concerns.
- Record Footage: Sharing security footage or suspicious activity with neighbours adds an extra layer of protection.
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There are new inexpensive security systems that allow you to easily monitor your home or that of loved ones from your phone in real time is invaluable in today's world
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With door chimes and wireless sensor-activated systems, it provides that sense of security without the need for costly installation by electricians.
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By cutting back trees and shrubs so there are no "hidey holes", along with clever lighting and other strategies will empower you to safeguard your homes and family even when you are not there.
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At the end of the day, intruders will go the path of least resistance, making it known and shown you are watching, will keep them off your property.
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Also most devices offer the ability to speak through the device to determine the needs of those coming onto the property or that of loved ones in distress
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Inexpensive security solutions offer peace of mind, knowing that you or your loved ones are safe from unwanted disturbances