10 Ways You Can 'Beef Up' Your Home's Security

You have done a beautiful remodeling job on your home. Or, you have just purchased the house of your dreams. Either way, home security is the one, often overlooked, facet of home life that you will want to fix so that you, your family, and your home will be a safe, happy place.

There are many ways to secure your home. From the ultra high tech, to the simple solutions, you have a wide variety of choices. It can all seem overwhelming. But, where do you start? Here are 10 ways that you can 'beef up'; the security of your property, and ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

1. DOORS and WINDOWS- This is an area where you get what you pay for. Cheaply made doors and windows can be compromised almost silently in mere seconds. Even a kid can pop a lock on a $20 door. So, shop around and find some good quality products.

2. HIDING PLACES- Abandoned appliances or large hedges close to the house make perfect hiding spots for intruders and attackers. So, get rid of them.

3. LADDERS and TRELLISES- Anything that can be climbed needs to go too. If it's yours, put it in the basement or garage. If it is just abandoned nearby, get rid of it. And, if a neighbor keeps leaving it out, ask him/her to store it properly.

4. PRIVACY FENCE- A good 8' fence around your yard will not make it impenetrable, but, it will make a nice buffer zone.

5. ROSES and THORNY PLANTS- It may seem like a simple idea. But, the last thing an intruder wants to do is stumble into your rose bush in the middle of the night. So, under every window, and at other strategic places around the yard, plant those thorny little bushes.

6. DOGS- This solution is as old as mankind. A dog will alert you to the presence of an intruder, scare them away, and, some breeds will even subdue them for you. You will want to research breeds and buy according to your likes and capabilities. You should also check state and local laws before a purchase.

7. CHECK and LOCK NIGHTLY- You should do a security walk-through every night checking every door and window. Make sure that they are still functioning, have not been tampered with, and locked up tight. This walk-through also gives you the opportunity to survey your property as well.

8. LIGHTING- Light up the yard. You have a million choices here. You can light up walk ways and entries with smaller lights. Or, you can light up the whole neighborhood with motion sensor activated flood lights. The fact is that intruders prefer dark places.

9. NEIGHBORS- It is always best to know your neighbors, and have them know you. When everyone knows each other then everyone will recognize a stranger. And, you will all feel comfortable calling each other when something seems out of place.

10. VIGILANCE- Nothing will be as effective as vigilance. Watch your yard, your home, your family, and your neighborhood.

While nothing can totally ensure that your home will never be targeted, following these tips will make the odds very slim that you will be a victim.