If you are like most of us, keeping your family safe is one of your top priorities! For this reason, many people like the sense of peace of mind that home security systems can provide. If you’re considering purchasing a home security system, this article will tell you what you need to know.

Have sensors installed on all of your windows. This allows you to leave windows open when you are not home, as well as when you are sleeping, without having to worry about an intruder being able to sneak in. They are very inexpensive and can be found at your local department or hardware store.

Is your dog outside when you are away? If so, you can use your dog to hide your spare key. Attach the key inside their collar and make sure it can’t be seen. This is quite effective if your pet does not respond well to strangers.

Walk outside of your home at night and see what is visible through your windows. If you have a clear view of your valuables, especially easily stolen electronics, then so do potential thieves. If you don’t want to rearrange the interior of your home, simply make sure that blinds or drapes block the view.

While home security systems are effective in most cases, many robberies are committed during daylight hours when the home is not vacant. In this case, the security system may not be activated so no warning would be sounded. Most burglars enter the home at some other point than the front door.

When it comes to making your home more secure, one obvious place to start is at your front door. If you do not currently have a high-quality lockset on your door, get one installed now. If your lockset does not include a deadbolt, they are inexpensive and a effective way to add security to your exterior doors.

If you are planning to take a vacation, or you simply work odd hours, get timers for your indoor lights. This will help your home appear to be occupied, even when you are away. Place these timers in more than one room as well, as a burglar will quickly realize that only one of your rooms is illuminated at any given time if you do not.

The best way to make your home appeared occupied while you are away is to have a housesitter look after your home. But if a housesitter is not available, you can increase your home security by installing timers on your interior lighting. Use the timers to make the lighting appear natural, by installing them in every room and varying the on and off times.

Don’t put your spare key in an obvious place near your front door. You might think this protects you against being locked out of your home, but it also gives intruders access to your home. Intruders know about the usual hiding spots. Give it to a neighbor you trust instead.

Knowing that your family is safe…you simply cannot put a price tag on that! Home security systems offer you peace of mind and the knowledge that your family is protected from harm. Not all security systems are created equal, however, and so the more research you do, the better of a choice you’ll make!