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Budget Home Security Tips by Nikki Willhite Recently the police came to our homeowner association and gave us some tips on home security. The crime in our city has gone up an astonishing 50% in just one month. Our neighborhood is not gated, but we do have a security patrol car that constantly drives around our streets. While that does provide a measure of protection, it is not enough. Here are some of the frugal things that you can do to protect you and your family. - Neighbors need to get to know each other. They need to know when others leave their home, and watch for suspicious activity. No one can keep an eye on your house like your neighbor can. If unknown cars or people are seen hanging around your house, you should call and report it. Organized neighborhood watch groups are highly effective. - Neighbors can help each other by removing signs a home is vacant, such as newspapers and flyers left on their doorsteps. They can also do things like parking their car in your driveway when you are gone. - Your cell phone is vital in calling for help.   In the old days, there was more criminal activity in the evening. Burglars could just cut your phone line and you were vulnerable. Keep your cell phone nearby at all times. - Homes with overgrown landscaping and blocked entrances are the most prone to burglary. Light the entrances to your home at night. Install as many motion activated lights as possible. If your neighbors are close to you, the lights will also alert them of potential danger. - Be careful about letting people know when you will be gone from your home. Homes are often burglarized during funerals because of newspaper announcements.   Most people now find someone to stay in their homes during these events. - If you can afford it, install a burglar alarm. If you can't, remember that the keychain to your car probably has an alarm button and keep it near you. The noise will alert the neighbors and potentially scare away a burglar. - Install good locks on your doors. Some locks are so flimsy, such as on screen doors, that a strong pull will break them. Keep your doors locked day and night. - Do not leave windows and sliding doors open, even in hot weather. - Store your valuables in a wall safe, or large safe that cannot be easily picked up and taken from your home. One last point. Check your insurance policy. Homes that are left vacant too long may lose some of their insurance protection from theft and vandalism. No one likes to think they will be a victim of crime. Unfortunately, it is becoming all too common. Worse than the loss of personal items are the emotional consequences. Do what you can to protect your family and your home. About the Author: Nikki Willhite, mother of 3 and an interior design graduate, has been writing and publishing articles on the topic of frugal living for over a decade. Visit her at www.frugalhappyfamilies.com - where you will find hundreds of frugal living tips and articles. Frugal Happy Families- more than just money!

 

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