Moving - Home Security Tips

Spring is approaching, which means that a lot of you will be relocating soon. I want to help make your move flow as easily as possible, which is why I have taken the time to compose a checklist of sorts that you can use to help guide you through the process.
Change All Of the Door Locks in Your New Home
Real estate and leasing agents, workmen, former residents…and anyone associated with a former residence is likely to have a key to your new abode. Don’t assume that any of these individuals are above breaking into your home. From the day that you take possession, you and the people that you authorize should be the only ones with keys to your door locks.  Remember to also place pin locks on all sliding doors (and windows).
Install an Alarm System
Before you spend a single night in your new home install an alarm system.  Contact Atlas Alarms for your no-charge home security evaulation.  (NOTE: If you haven’t already done so, contact your insurance agent to inquire about any discounts that you may be eligible for by securing your home with an alarm system.)
Alert Your Monitoring Company
Contact yourMonitoring Company to update them on your move. More often than not you will have to provide 30 Days written notice.
Place Security Warnings Around Your Home
Deterrents are your first line of defense against burglary. Let the bad guys know that you’re prepared and they’ll likely move onto an unsuspecting residence, instead. One of the most effective ways to go about this is to place security warnings on your windows, your front lawn and anywhere else visible to the casual observer.
Secure Your Fencing
Walk around your front, side and back yard and check for holes or weak areas in your fencing and, if found, repair these issues right away. I also recommend a lock on your gate.  Not only will this help keep burglars away, but doing so will also help keep pets and young children inside.
Introduce Yourself to Your New neighbors
A face-to-face introduction helps neighbors establish a rapport with one another. Such an introduction may also heighten vigilance amongst homeowners. Without appearing paranoid, let your new neighbors know that they can contact you anytime they see or hear anything unusual around your property and that you will kindly do the same for them.
Inquire About a Neighborhood Watch Program
Call or visit your local police department to find out who is in charge of your local neighborhood watch meetings and when they are held. If you discover that no such program exists, speak to your police department about starting one. This is a great way to get to know your neighbors while fighting crime at the same time.
Start Fresh
Start fresh and change the batteries in all of the smoke detectors in your new home.

For more information contact Kelly Lynn Wicks at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com