Solid Security Begins with the Doors and Entryways

The foundation of any home security system begins with the following two measures:

• Key-operated, two-cylinder deadlocks for all hinged, external doors
• Key-operated locks or patio bolts for all external sliding doors

Deadlocks create a strong barrier of defence against intruders and ensure that anyone intent on breaking in will have to invest substantial time and energy in the process – and the same goes for patio bolts. Just bear in mind that – when installing dual-cylinder key operated locks – it’s important that a key is located relatively close to the door on the inside so that occupants who need to rush out in case of an emergency can quickly unlock the door. 

High-quality locks are a non-negotiable aspect of a reliable home security system, but there are many other considerations to take into account. Most importantly, you must take inventory of your home or business and identify all of its potential points of access. After all, burglars don’t necessarily have to enter through the door.

Securing Windows and Other Points of Access

The next points of entry to secure on any home or business are the windows. This is a common access point for burglars for three main reasons:

1. Window glass can easily be shattered.
2. The factory installed locks on some windows are not as strong as they should be.
3. Many property owners forget to check if the windows are even locked.

You can shore up the security of your windows by installing single cylinder locks on all of them. However, it is also worth considering the strength of glass in each accessible window. One possibility is to install break-resistant glass for each pane, though this is a fairly large task. If you’re not prepared to do that, then consider installing security grills or – better yet – security screens. Either of these will help to maintain a defensive barrier for your property even if the window glass is broken.

It’s wise to make a habit out of checking your windows to ensure they are locked. It’s extremely easy to overlook this seemingly minor detail, and doing so is tantamount to leaving a door unlocked.

Finally, there is one other common point of entry that homeowners can easily overlook – the garage door. Always make sure that your garage door is closed and securely locked when you leave the house. Furthermore, invest in a strong security door at the access point between the garage and the house. This way, if a burglar is able to gain access to your garage, there will still be a strong barrier keeping them out of the house.   

Other Security Measures to Protect Your Property

In addition to safeguarding all entryways, sliding doors, windows and garage doors, there are several other steps you can take to ensure that your property remains safe and secure. Here are a few miscellaneous tips to keep in mind:

• Always lock all outside doors and windows when you go out, even if you are only going to be away for 10 minutes.
• Lock your external garage or garden shed with a quality, key-operated lock or padlock.
• If you go out at night, leave some internal lights and perhaps a radio running so that potential burglars are not 100 per cent that no one is home.
• Trim trees and shrubs around windows, as these are like purpose-built hiding places for thieves, vandals and intruders. 
• Never leave keys hidden outside your house. The truth is that most hiding places are not that difficult to work out – especially for someone who breaks into properties on a regular basis.
• If you are working in the garden or watching TV, lock up parts of the house you can't keep an eye on. You’d be surprised at how bold some burglars are – many will slip into your house in broad daylight.
• Lock away ladders, garden tools and anything else that might be used as an implement to break into your house.
• Lock or otherwise secure valuable items that are kept outside, such as bicycles, barbecues and expensive tools.
• If you have a lot of jewellery, valuable documents, cash or other negotiable items, consider installing a safe or a burglar alarm in your home. There’s no reason to risk losing something that’s worth so much.
• Never leave a note on your door telling your neighbour or an expected visitor that you’re out and plan to be back at a certain time.

Break-ins and burglaries are an unfortunate part of life. They occur more often than you probably realise, and there’s nothing quite as disheartening as that sinking feeling that sets in when you realise that a stranger has been in your home going through your private things.

Following these tips goes a long way toward bolstering the security of your property. But there’s no such thing as a 100 per cent secure property. That’s why it’s also important to install a state-of-the-art security system. 

Install a Security Alarm from AustGuard Security Services

There’s only so much you can do to keep burglars and intruders out of your home or business. But with a security system in place, you can rest assured that – in the event someone does gain access to your property – you and the authorities will be notified in a timely manner. And the reality is, when a would-be burglar can clearly see that your property is protected by an advanced security system, they’re much more likely to keep looking for an easier target.

We offer premium home alarm systems and commercial property alarms for Perth properties. You can browse the details of our security alarms and related services right here on our website. And should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us on 1300 883 898.