Below we’ll outline our top tips for safeguarding your family, home, and property this spring.
1. Check, Test & Inspect Smoke Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
When the clocks “spring forward” one hour with Daylight Saving Time, it’s also time to check and inspect your home’s smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Ensuring these work efficiently with full batteries can be the difference between injuries, damages, and even death.
It’s important to listen for specific beeping and chirping sounds, both of which have distinct tones signifying potential issues such as emergencies, low batteries, or device replacement.
SMART SPRING SAFETY TIP
Directly connect carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to your security system’s 24/7 Central Station Monitoring service for immediate responses from local law enforcement and emergency personnel.
2. Clean & Reposition Outdoor Security Cameras
As warmer weather entices homeowners to venture out, a clearly positioned doorbell camera can thwart front-porch package thefts. Often occurring during daylight hours, these so-called “porch pirates” keep watch for unattended deliveries.
SMART SPRING SAFETY TIP
Placing security cameras away from direct sunlight or other bright areas is best for avoiding distorted or blocked imagery and video.
3. Review Outdoor Lighting & Motion Detection
When illuminating front-porches and other outdoor areas, spring is the perfect season to check for missing or inactive light bulbs.
Adding motion detection sensors to outdoor areas lets burglars know they’re being watched, while smart settings can trigger in-home activities such as turning on lights and music with pre-set controls. You can even set up tripwires and activity zones should any unwelcome individuals breach these areas.
SMART SPRING SAFETY TIP
Add video analytics and motion detection to review security camera footage from any mobile device.
4. Ensure Contact Sensors Are Properly Placed on Windows & Doors
Contact sensors provide immediate alerts when windows and doors are left ajar or unlocked. Activated upon separation from their sensors—these can also trigger alerts and alarms to predetermined changes in thermostat temperatures, lighting, and more. It’s best to place these devices on the magnetic side and out of reach to avoid malfunctions, false notifications, and damage and tampering.
SMART SPRING SAFETY TIP
While you can place contact sensors on your own, consult a reputable service provider such as General Security for assistance.
5. Keep Garages & Sheds Secure
One of the least anticipated “spring cleaning” chores is undoubtedly cleaning out garages and sheds. With warmer weather approaching and more time spent outdoors, you’ll be tempted to leave these structures open. While this provides easy access, it’s also an invitation for thieves to slip into your home through an attached garage door. Make sure sheds are kept secure with smart locks boasting personalized security codes.
SMART SPRING SAFETY TIP
Add automated garage door openers and locks with accompanying smart controls.
6. Inspect Chimneys, Roofs & Gutters
Spring is the ideal time of year to revisit roofs and gutters to clear out any collected leaves. With the proper equipment and a sturdy ladder, check for winter storm damage to roof shingles, chimney flashing, or gutters. If you’re unsure, it’s best to enlist a professional roofing contractor and chimney specialist for assistance.
SMART SPRING SAFETY TIP
Spring is also primetime for birds and other animals seeking warm spots. Make sure any openings around gutters and chimney flashings are properly adjusted and sealed.
7. Manage Unsuspecting Water Leaks
Before turning on outdoor water spigots, hoses, and sprinkler systems, it’s first recommended to check for any leaks and drippage—which could lead to water damage. Adding flood and temperature sensors can help alleviate these worries with quick, real-time moisture and leak detection alerts via the Alarm.com app.
8. Clear Any Overgrown Landscaping & Vegetation
To avoid overgrown or dead shrubs, trees, and hedges, it’s best to regularly maintain and water these areas or enlist a professional landscaping service for help. Not only are these prime hiding spots for unsuspecting thieves, they can also conceal areas otherwise detected via outdoor security cameras.
Neglected landscaping and cluttered front-porch areas could convey the home is unoccupied or abandoned, making it a target for burglaries and other unsavory activities.
SMART SPRING SAFETY TIP
Remotely control your outdoor watering schedules from anywhere with a smart sprinkler system.
9. Adjust & Clean HVAC Filters & Vents
Warmer weather calls for adjusting cooling and heating sources per exterior temperatures. Check to ensure your HVAC unit is updated or have a licensed professional inspect and clean the system.
Air conditioning return and supply vents should be checked regularly for optimal function. If using a central HVAC system, replacing filters is necessary for air quality and energy efficiency.
10. Create a Home Safety Maintenance Checklist
Discuss with your family what to include in your home safety and maintenance plan for additional leverage in case of an unforeseen situation.
Article Credit: https://www.gensecurity.com/blog/smart-home-safety-tips-spring