This month's security tips section is a hybrid from information on the KeepSafe Systems site, as well as some information from a recent Richmond RCMP Block watch Newsletter (being in the industry of safety, I like to keep an eye on what is happening around us)
In the Richmond Newsletter they brought up the shortening of days and earlier darkness. This is not a new topic, but it still warrants addressing. In addition, they mentioned seasonal lighting and how certain aspects could reduce the overall security of your home.
The first area of focus was the interior of your home and how adding lighting timers could help to make your home look occupied. While it was not mentioned in the article, it is important to have a number of timers cycling at various times, to make it look like someone is moving through the house. Simply having all the interior lights come on at exactly the same time, every evening, may make your home more of a target. With the Automation systems I install, I like to have various light groups come on and off, throughout the evening, to make it look like the home is occupied, when it is not. Music is also a good addition, as a silent home is a clear sign of a vacant home. I am not saying blast the stereo, but a simple radio playing in the background will give your home a more occupied “appearance” to anyone snooping around.
On the topic of snooping around, the article also mentioned exterior motion sensor lighting. Criminals generally try to hide their activities, while motion sensor lights may not scare all of them away, it will certainly draw attention to them and give you insight into the activities outside your home. Keep in mind, raccoon's may also set these motion detectors off. A simple work around is requiring two motion sensors to trigger at the same time, in order for the light to run on. Ensure the motion sensors are looking at the same area but separated by a large distance. Many modern security cameras have advanced logistics designed to differentiate between critters and humans. If this is combined with an automation system, exterior lights can be controlled based on very specific motion. Some cameras also have the ability to trigger an audible warning, although this may not be desirable in a residential neighbourhood.
Another exterior tip suggested the trimming of hedges and trees around your home. Fall is the trimming time of year, after all. By trimming the bushes around your property, you are reducing the potential hiding places for would be criminals to hide out and or conceal their activities. They also suggested installing more lighting around your home, although this was already covered in the motion sensor lighting.
On the topic of lighting, an interesting topic they brought up was the running of seasonal lighting cables through open windows and doors. While I have never seen or done this, myself, an open window or door not only “lets the cold air in” it also gives potential criminals an easy way in. Alarm systems can be configured with a second magnet, to allow you to leave the window slightly a-jar. Any movement beyond the set point would trigger the alarm. It is important to install secure window stops (in both directions) to prevent false alarms from the window opening or closing. Closing because there is usually a gap point where the transition between the two magnets causes the window to be in a open status, to the alarm system.
On the topic of open doors, I feel this topic would not be complete without mentioning garage overhead doors. I have been walking through our neighbourhood more frequently lately, and I have noticed the trend of leaving garage overhead doors open and unattended has not reduced, since the last time I brought this problem up. I know many seem to think their garage has little of value, criminals can use it as an entry point into your home, they can also tamper with your garage door opener, to allow them to easily access your home, at a later time. While closing your overhead door may seem like an inconvenience, the alternative is more so.
Content from KeepSafeSystems.ca - Used with permission