How secure is your home? You may be surprised to find out that your home is not as protected or secure as you believe it to be. In fact, many homeowners in the Central Valley are not properly securing their homes against burglaries or home invasions. According to Neighborhood Scout, the annual number of property crimes in Fresno has increased to 17,934 compared to the number of violent crimes at 3,032. Check out our 7 most common home security mistakes to ensure you can properly avoid them.
Neglecting to Arm your Security System
Many homeowners feel as though once they install a security and alarm system the rest is a breeze. Well yes, getting a home security system can be a huge plus for deterring criminals, but according to the FBI’s 2019 Uniform Crime Report, 37.8% of burglaries were unlawful or unforced entry. Break-ins like these can be avoided with a properly functioning AmeriGuard Security system. But this only happens if the system is ARMED! Make it a daily habit to set and arm your system every time you leave the house, even if it is only for a short trip to the store.
Not Opting For A Full Home Security System
Picking out the perfect home security system in our Central Valley can be a bit overwhelming, especially when considering just how many different security systems and devices are on the market today. Security systems are made up of various components, so it is best to consider tailored security systems that include all the essential elements, such as monitoring, sensors, alarms, guard response, doorbell camera, etc. If you were to only opt for one component of a security system by installing only detectors, your home would not be sufficiently guarded against intruders.
Forgetting Your System Credentials
Your system will have login credentials that you will set when a certified AmeriGuard technician installs your home security system. These credentials should be written down and kept in a safe place, and preferably set in your memory. It is important to remember these credentials for service calls, maintenance, and general access to your account.
Leaving Valuables In View
Criminals in the Fresno, Clovis, Madera and Central Valley areas often visit a residence more than once before they attempt to gain entrance. Leaving expensive items in view can actually attract a criminal to make a return visit and attempt entrance. Put away expensive items like laptops, tablets, and jewelry so they are not seen from first floor windows. Other items like cars or televisions are not as easy to hide but they can be kept out of view in a garage or cabinet.
Allowing Landscaping to Block Windows
Your choices in landscaping may cause intruders to target your home. For instance, large bushes or trees that block windows may be aesthetically pleasing but they also allow for cover when an intruder is trying to find a way into your home. Keep bushes trimmed and low so they do not cover windows or give cover for an intruder to use.
Failing to Properly Light Your Property
Most Central Valley homeowners consider keeping a light on inside the house when they are not home, but few think about having lighting that will startle an intruder should they cause it to turn on outside the home. By installing motion sensitive lights around your home’s perimeter, you will potentially stop a thief from entering your property.
Posting on Social Media
While you may want to let your friends and family know that you and your family have jetted off to some tropical location, realize that you may be inviting someone to enter your home by doing so. Keep your trips on the quiet side until you return, then post your vacation pictures online.
To avoid making these and other errors in your home security setup, partner with a professional, like AmeriGuard Security, voted best Security Alarm company in Fresno.
AmeriGuard Security is the top home security choice in Fresno, Clovis, Merced, and the Central Valley. We have been offering the best home security systems, business security systems, and fastest call response for over 30 years. Top-Rated Security Cameras, Video Doorbell Cameras, and Alarm Systems with 24/7 Alarm Monitoring and Guard Response starting as low as $31.99 per month! Call us today at (559) 271-5984 for a free personalized quote to fit your specific alarm and security needs.