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July 03, 2023

Keep Your Home Safe In Ithaca By Staying Away From These Typical Home Security Mistakes

Placing a key outside for friends and neighbors is still one of the most common home security mistakes people make. You already know this isn’t wise, but are there other actions you’re doing - or neglecting to do - that are placing your home in danger? Stay away from the following mistakes and find tips on how you are able to keep your home safe in Ithaca.

Mistake #1: Opting For A Ithaca Security System Without Professional Monitoring

This common mistake often occurs with residents who go with DIY home security installations. It may be enticing to try to save a little money, but what if you let the battery die on your smartphone and fail to notice a notification? Monitoring agents won’t overlook a triggered event. And if they are unable to contact you, they’ll move forward in your stead. Having a reliable backup at the ready to help in any crisis is the best move and well worth the expense. You’ll be thankful for the added peace of mind.

Mistake #2: Failing To Secure Windows And Doors

This seems self-explanatory, but you might be surprised by the amount of homeowners who fail to lock common entrances. You may be conscientious about locking them at night but fail to remember before leaving for work. But you should consider, a higher percentage of burglaries take place before dark.

And it’s worth mentioning that most trespassers are searching for the path of least resistance and will attempt to identify an unlocked access point in lieu of forcing through a window or door. Smart door locks will help as you are able to program them to lock automatically. You can also secure them remotely if you forget to do so before departing.

Mistake #3: Leaving Openings In Your Wireless Home Security In Ithaca

You love your home’s wireless security, and it’s no secret why. You are able to check video streams from security cameras, adjust your smart thermostat, and even activate the locks of your doors no matter where you are. The only thing you must have is your smartphone and a wireless internet connection. However, this easy access also opens the door to cyber attacks. You must make certain your network and components are as secure as possible. You can achieve this by:

  • Creating secure passwords and updating them periodically. One common mistake is leaving the default password on your router. Don’t forget to change it!
  • Making sure your router and all devices are updated. If there are updates available, install them.
  • Using the latest WiFi security such as WPA3 (or WPA2 if not available).
  • Putting your home security devices on an isolated network. You are still able to have a guest network to allow family members or visitors access to the internet.

Mistake #4: Allowing Packages To Sit In Front Of Your Door

Online shopping has become an important part of our lives, but unfortunately, so has package theft. Letting goods sit on your doorstep for an hour or more is an invitation to opportunistic thieves. Luckily, it’s pretty easy to avoid this situation. Smart devices like doorbell cameras and outdoor surveillance can be set up to immediately update you whenever motion is discerned. As a result, you’ll always know when a box arrives. If you’re away, you can ask a trusted neighbor to bring it inside.

Keep Your Home Safe With A Modern Security System From Secure24 Alarm Systems

The smartest way to keep your home safe in Ithaca is with a modern home security system from Secure24 Alarm Systems. You’ll get the most advanced tools and 24/7 monitoring to safeguard your home and family at all times. Contact (607) 204-9053 to design your system today.