Keeping An Eye On The Outside

Some of the most vulnerable parts of any home are the yard and the buildings that lay on the perimeter of the property. Keeping an eye on such areas can be a great enhancement to any security system. It's instinctive in us to monitor the outlying areas of our territory; just think of how quickly you'll go to the window and look out if you suspect something is amiss. Your security system should satisfy that instinct.

Today's security systems have an array of options that can extend their electronic eyes to the areas of our homes where our physical eyes can't reach. The first line of defense can constitute a fun, and enlightening, home improvement project that any homeowner can do themselves.

There are many inexpensive yet high quality motion-activated lights available in most hardware stores. Survey your property for good places to install them. Most likely, you'll immediately think of any outbuildings where valuables are stored, such as garages and sheds. Even installing one on a convenient tree isn't a bad idea, if it will serve to illuminate the yard in case an after-dark interloper comes by. Once you've surveyed and installed the lights, you have a vital piece of information: You now know where your security system should be extended.

Many modern security systems have wireless technology that allows the remote installation of devices such as motion detectors and keypads. Having these installed on outbuildings brings their security in line with that of the rest of the house. Window break sensors should be installed, as well, as a burglar can easily knock out a garage window and loot the contents in the middle of the night without being detected if there is no alarm installed.

Door opening sensors are as appropriate on garages as they are on any other door in the home. They provide an extra layer of security for the vehicle and, in cases where the garage is attached to the home, for the house proper.

You may want to consider installing motion activated lights on your front porch, even if you have a porch light already installed. Leaving a light on all night is poor energy conservation practice. Having a light that turns on when needed is an excellent security practice.

The perimeter of your home can further be secured by a completely passive device: Signs that indicate the home is equipped with an alarm. These signs serve the same purpose as does a hornet's bright coloring: They make it apparent that what lies beyond is a very dangerous target. Any burglar knows that security systems are nearly impossible to defeat. The monitoring system will know right away if someone tampers with the alarm and will immediately start the process of alerting the homeowners and authorities. No matter how many measures you take inside the perimeter of your property, making the statement at the edges is a great way to keep those measures from ever being tested by a burglar.

By: Andrea Brooks

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