Your home isn’t just one of the biggest financial investments you’ll make in your lifetime—it’s where you and your family feel the safest. Protecting your loved ones is of the utmost importance. This is especially true in your home. Are you doing your best to secure your home from unwanted intrusions? Is there more that you could be doing?

Optimal home security takes a multifaceted approach. The peace of mind that comes with securing your home both inside and out is priceless. Use these tips to maximize your home security and keep your family safe.

Start outside

Home security starts outside of your home. Begin by examining your home for potential vulnerabilities that could attract an intruder. Windows and doors should be visibly secured with high-security locks. Consider installing motion-activated flood lights in front of and behind your home, as well as security cameras. These features greatly reduce the risk of a break-in. Additionally, a high fence drastically reduces on the risk of intrusion. Be sure to lock all exterior doors, windows, and gates when not in use, and stow any high-value items from view to eliminate temptation for potential thieves.

Some homeowners stash keys outside of the home in case of emergency. Rather than storing a spare key under a mat or rock, invest in a lock box that is equipped with a combination, or a similar hide-a-key product that is designed to blend into your landscaping. Make sure members of your household have committed the access code to memory in case of an emergency. This is a much more secure means of storing an extra key compared to hiding a key outside your home where anyone could find it.

Secure indoor spaces

With windows and doors locked, consider braces to bolster the security of certain entryways. Sliding glass doors and windows can be jammed with wooden dowels to eliminate the risk of tampering. Even if an intruder defeats your locks, a properly braced window will be all but impossible to open.

Home security systems and alarms can also provide a degree of security and serve as deterrents to would-be burglars. Be sure to properly set these devices when home or away and display the yard sign and/or stickers provided by the security company to show that your home is no easy target.

When you’re away

It isn’t possible to be home at all times. Protecting your family’s safe space is most important when you are away. This is another time when home security systems offer valuable peace of mind. Most modern Wi-fi-enabled cameras give you access via a smartphone app, keeping a real-time view of your home at your fingertips.

Before leaving your home unattended for an extended period, such as on a vacation or other trip, be sure to double and triple check that all doors and windows are locked. Try setting interior lights on a timer to go on and off through the night to give the appearance that you are still inside. Lastly, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on the place while you’re away.

Concerned that your home security isn’t up to snuff? The locksmiths at Dublin Mobile Locksmiths have years of experience helping residents of Dublin, Ohio and beyond keep their homes safe and sound. Contact us today for an assessment of your home’s security by a member of our expert staff.