One of the most successful home security tips is to encourage using a timer to control lights when away from home. A simple timing device will provide the illusion of people living in the home. This, as we know, discourages would be thieves from attempting to break in your home.
So when leaving for even an evening out, be certain to set the timer on a light. It provides great security and you won’t trip when coming back from a night on the town.
Install Shutters or Plywood Window Covers
High winds and wind blown debris can easily break your unprotected windows and then enter your house. Once inside the house, wind and debris can cause more damage. Protecting your windows not only helps you avoid damage to your house, it also reduces the chances that you or members of your family will be hurt by broken glass or flying debris.
Windows can be protected with permanent storm shutters or temporary plywood covers. Permanent storm shutters can usually be closed quickly and easily which make them an advantage over temporary covers. Making temporary covers can be a less expensive alternative and these can be installed fairly quickly if they are prepared properly ahead of time. These plywood covers can also be used to protect your sliding glass doors and French doors.
You should seriously consider using permanent storm shutter if you live in an area where it is necessary to act quickly to protect your windows. If you decide instead to use the temporary plywood covers you can hire a contractor to make them or if you are handy with tools you can make them yourself. Make sure if you make them yourself that you cut the plywood and drill holes for screws or lag bolts in each cover and in the wall around each window. The screws or bolts should be long enough to penetrate the wall studs around the window.
Don’t wait until the hurricane warning is issued to make the plywood covers. You most likely wont have enough time. You should make the covers ahead of time and store then in your garage or shed with the screws or lag bolts. Label your covers so that you can quickly and easily know which window they were made for and which way they fit.