A home invasion is something no one wants to ever encounter in their lifetime but one must account for the possibility. Taking proactive steps to secure your home can help you obtain savings on your home insurance. Many insurance carriers offer discounts for added security measures and additional efforts to protect your home. If you have found yourself wondering how to keep intruders away and keep your family safe, there are a few things to consider.
Home Invasion Security Measures Help Bolster Your Home Insurance
Having insurance coverage is a start and can provide funds if something should happen. However, the ultimate goal should be to reduce the risk of a problem from the start. That means being proactive about security measures. What is the best deterrent for home invasion? A comprehensive security plan.
Install a Security System
Security systems with real-time monitoring and smart system access provide you with added protection in the event of a potential home invasion. When you advertise its presence with signs, you deter those would-be criminals who are searching for an easy target. Many home insurance policies offer discounts for these systems.
Incorporate Surveillance and Lighting
Your entire property should be clearly visible with exterior and interior surveillance cameras. Floodlights activated by motion sensors can prove beneficial outside at night. Any time someone breaches the perimeter of the motion sensor, those lights turn on and eliminate any dark shadows that could provide cover. The lights also improve image clarity and quality for your surveillance systems, giving you better evidence. Not only that, but homeowners insurance policies often provide discounts for passive security such as this.
Monitor Blind Spots
Monitor your surveillance system regularly and eliminate any potential blind spots. Whether it’s a branch that you need to cut back to keep leaves away from the camera or a bush that needs trimming to eliminate a hiding spot, be proactive about eliminating blind spots.
Secure Every Potential Entry Point
Look at your home’s perimeter from the perspective of a thief. Locate any potential entry points, including windows, balconies and doorways. Target each one of those and make them difficult for anyone to exploit. Add thick, thorny shrubbery beneath all of your lower-level windows. Repair any broken windows or damaged door frames, secure any ladders and install key code locks on all of your exterior doors.
Keep Your Valuables Secure
While it is tempting to want to show off those valuable investments that you have made and you are probably proud of those things, it is better to keep them secure and avoid calling attention to them. Showcasing your valuables can make you a target for home invasion.
Home Insurance Reviews Ensure Your Coverage Limits Remain Adequate
Conduct routine assessments of your insurance coverage to ensure that you have adequate coverage for any improvements that you have made or added valuables that you have acquired. Your home insurance agent will remind you that certain valuables may require additional coverage in terms of a rider to ensure that you have the policy protection you need. Routine assessments prevent you from facing costly losses in the event of any home invasion, theft or damage.
About Brooks, Todd & McNeil
Since 1839, the independent agents at Brooks, Todd & McNeil have been pleased to offer our community the best and most affordable policies from a variety of providers. Our dedicated facilitators are ready to put their 75 years of combined experience to work on your claims. To learn more about our products and services, contact us today at (800) 448-4567.