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Layers of security: Important security spaces outside your home

Layers of security: Important security spaces outside your home

This article is part one of a three part “Layers Of Security” series we will be diving into in 2018.

Home security is often thought of as a “choose your own solution”. Some, like many of you reading this article have chosen to work with a professional security provider such as EPS. Others have chosen to lean on other security measures, such as the family canine or their trusty firearm collection.

Nevertheless, for optimal home security and protection, creating layers of security is the primary goal. Think of these layers as warm blankets on a cold Michigan winter day. Finding the right combination of security strategies, tactics and forms is unique to each homeowner and the layout of their home. In most cases, a home has three primary environmental layers: outside, inside, and the perimeter walls, windows and doors. The layer of protection we will address in this article is the space outside of the home.

The outside of your home includes the entirety of your property outside of the primary structure. This space includes front and back yards, wooded areas, driveways, fences, sidewalks, out-buildings and any landscaping. Each of these elements provides an opportunity to improve your home’s security. Lighting can be the easiest and least expensive security addition to your home. Carefully positioning bright lights at doorways, entry ways and in front of driveways removes blind spots and hideaways for criminals. Many outdoor lights can be purchased with motion detectors to decrease energy costs and provide a surprise for unwanted visitors. Fencing and gateways can also be a deterrent. Tall wooden or chain link fences provide a simply barrier to slow down or inhibit a would-be burglar.

When considering electronic security, a video surveillance system is an ideal solution for outdoor space. Over the last few years, impressive video camera systems have become available to homeowners. In the simplest form, the video door bell has become hugely popular. EPS recommends the SkyBell for its resiliency in harsh Michigan winters and premium 1080p HD video quality. Comprehensive exterior IP video camera systems are also increasing in popularity among homeowners. Scalable solutions with remarkable video quality at a reasonable price point have opened video surveillance systems as options to nearly any homeowner. The technology has also joined the smart home revolution with access to mobile apps and remote viewing.

Furthermore, entrusting neighbors to watch over your property can be invaluable if the necessary level of trust exists. Neighborhood watch programs can collectively provide a significant level of surveillance. Taking notice of odd vehicles or pedestrians in the area can preempt and prevent break-ins and other criminal acts.

Leaving for the weekend or going on vacation? Let a neighbor you trust know and ask if they will look out for any suspicious behavior. Have them pick up packages for you or hold on to your mail if you’re gone for an extended period of time. Packages left outside are common targets for thieves and an overflowing mailbox is one of the more obvious signals to a burglar that the homeowner is away. For even longer absences, having someone keep your landscaping and lawn trim can also be very helpful. Homes with long, uncut grass or piles of leaves can be another signal of opportunity to a would-be criminal.

For optimal home security, the outside of your home is all about presentation. Well lit areas, timely upkeep and a few essential security products act as the best deterrents. Nevertheless, the outdoor layer of home security is just one facet of complete home protection. Our next layer of security will focus on the perimeter of the home… the walls, doors and windows and what simple changes can make your home a very frustrating target for even the most savvy intruders.

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