Florida Home Security and Safety Resources

In the United States, homes without a security system are three times more likely to be burglarized. Burglars want to get in and out with minimum hassle—why risk getting caught by a security system when they could just move onto the next house? Security systems send a message to burglars that your home is not to be trifled with.

With the smart home features available today, it’s easy to monitor the happenings in your home whether you’re sitting on your sofa or out running errands. Home security system apps can help with remote activation of your system, smart lighting or smart device control, and live video streaming to your phone, smart TV or smart display.

Don’t forget to take care of the obvious. Always lock your doors, and leave a spare key with a friend or neighbor (instead of under a flower pot or doormat). Don’t forget to lock your windows at night or when you’re out. Trim bushes lining your home to eliminate hiding places, and invest in motion sensor cameras and outdoor lighting to keep dark spots near your home entrances visible.

Strengthening the security of your neighborhood can start with getting to know your neighbors. You might find friends who can watch your place when you’re away, look out for a lost pet, help solve package theft mysteries, or aid in an emergency. And you can work together to build safety resources your community needs.

Prepare your home for vacation by maintaining a lived-in appearance, stopping the mail and newspapers before you leave, and setting indoor lights on variable timers. Avoid announcing specific vacation plans on social media or making it clear that the house is empty. Let trusted neighbors know you’ll be gone; consider asking them to park their car in your driveway or make footprints in the snow (if it’s winter).