Back-to-School Safety: Essential Physical Security Tips for Parents
As the new school year approaches, parents everywhere are busy checking off their back-to-school lists. While school supplies and new clothes are important, it’s equally crucial to consider your child’s safety as they return to their academic routine. Ensuring that your home is secure is a key part of keeping your children safe. Here are some locksmith-related physical security tips to help protect your family as the school year begins.
1. Rekey Your Home’s Locks
If you’ve recently moved or lost a key, it’s a good idea to rekey your home’s locks before the school year starts. Rekeying is a simple process that changes the internal mechanisms of a lock, rendering old keys useless. This ensures that only you and your trusted family members have access to your home, providing peace of mind while you’re at work and your children are at school.
2. Install Deadbolts for Added Security
Deadbolts offer an additional layer of security beyond standard door locks. They are more resistant to forced entry, making them a smart choice for exterior doors. If your home doesn’t already have deadbolts installed, now is the time to consider adding them. For maximum protection, choose a high-quality, grade 1 deadbolt and have it professionally installed.
3. Upgrade to Smart Locks
Smart locks are a convenient and secure option for families with older children. These locks can be controlled via smartphone, allowing you to monitor and control who enters your home, even when you’re not there. Some smart locks even allow you to set temporary access codes, perfect for babysitters or out-of-town guests. This technology ensures that your home remains secure while giving you control over access points.
4. Check and Reinforce Windows
Windows are often overlooked when it comes to home security, but they are a common entry point for intruders. Make sure all windows have functioning locks and consider adding window bars or security film for extra protection. If your child’s bedroom is on the ground floor, it’s especially important to ensure these windows are secure.
5. Secure Garage and Shed Doors
Garage and shed doors often contain valuable items that could be targets for theft. Make sure these doors are equipped with sturdy locks and consider installing a deadbolt for added security. If your child enters the home through the garage, a keypad entry system can provide secure and easy access.
6. Educate Your Children on Door Safety
It’s important to teach your children about door safety. Make sure they understand not to open the door for strangers and how to properly lock and unlock doors when coming home. If you have a smart lock or keypad, ensure they know how to use it and the importance of keeping codes private.
7. Install a Peephole or Doorbell Camera
A peephole or doorbell camera allows your child to see who is at the door without opening it. This added layer of security can help them make safer decisions when home alone. Doorbell cameras also provide the benefit of recording visitors, giving you peace of mind when your child is home by themselves.
8. Emergency Key Backup
Consider where you keep spare keys. While under the doormat or a potted plant may seem convenient, these spots are also the first places a burglar will check. Instead, provide a spare key to a trusted neighbor or invest in a secure key lockbox that can be mounted in a discreet location.
9. Evaluate Outdoor Lighting
Proper outdoor lighting is a crucial deterrent for potential intruders. Motion-sensor lights near entryways and around the perimeter of your home can increase security. Make sure all bulbs are functioning and consider upgrading to energy-efficient LED lights for reliability and lower energy costs.
10. Review and Update Your Home Security System
If you have a home security system, review its features and update any components as needed. Ensure all entry points are covered by sensors and that your system is linked to your smartphone for real-time alerts. For added peace of mind, consider integrating a smart home system that connects locks, cameras, and alarms into one unified platform.
Conclusion
As your children head back to school, taking a few extra steps to secure your home can provide invaluable peace of mind. By rekeying locks, installing deadbolts, upgrading to smart locks, and educating your children on safety protocols, you can help ensure they stay safe throughout the school year. At Tru-Max Security, we’re here to assist with all your home security needs, offering professional installations and expert advice to keep your family safe.
Ken Suitor
Text or Call us@ 613-591-0909
Or
ken@trumaxsecurity.ca
