It’s normal for older people to feel vulnerable in their homes. Even calm neighbourhoods experience break-ins every so often, and criminals are known for targeting the elderly. What’s more, older citizens are often physically less able to protect themselves from burglars. As such, it is vital that senior citizens learn how to prevent house break-ins and install the necessary equipment to deter potential thieves. To help you or your loved ones stay safe, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of home security tips for seniors.
Install surveillance cameras and security lights
Outdoor security lighting is great for deterring potential burglars, as it makes detecting criminal activity significantly easier. Bright security lights may also help to reduce the risk of falls during the evening.
To make your security lighting as effective as possible, try to cover all entrances to your property, including patio doors, fences, gates, and the darker parts of your garden. If you’re a keen gardener with plenty of trees and bushes, thieves may use them as covert hiding tools. Prevent this by angling security lights towards dense areas of foliage.
The presence of surveillance cameras is also likely to deter criminals and, in the event of an attempted break-in, will help you to identify the perpetrator(s) – making it one of the most important home safety tips for seniors. Modern security cameras often contain motion detectors that record and store footage of unusual activity around the home. What’s more, this footage can be stored on the cloud to avoid evidence tampering.
Mask valuables with security window film
Many homeowners have installed security screens and doors to protect their property while allowing providing relief from the heat. However, the fixed panel of the glass is left vulnerable to smashing by brazen thieves. Fortunately, it is now possible to reinforce windows and glass doors using security window film and tint.
This translucent material renders glass virtually shatter-proof and comes in a range of tints to prevent people from peering inside your property, thus reducing temptation on the part of criminals. Unlike metal grilles, security film can allow plenty of light to flow through.
Reinforce your doors
Wondering how to prevent break-ins with a sliding glass door? While your door may seem vulnerable, it is possible to reinforce it with a deadbolt lock and a rod to strengthen the tracks. It is also a good idea to install an alarm sensor to immediately alert you to any malicious activity.
Always lock your doors
Even if you are home, it is important that you lock your doors. You cannot keep an eye out for intruders at all times, so locking up will give you the peace of mind you need to get on with your day.
Verify the identity of visitors
If someone knocks on your door, remember to verify their identity using a traditional peephole in your door or a doorbell camera. This is one of the simplest and most effective home security safety tips. If you’re unsure about the identity of a caller, ask for their name and reason for visiting before opening up. If you’re at all suspicious that their intentions may be malicious, refuse entry and, if necessary, call the authorities.
Going away on holiday?
If you’re leaving your property unattended for more than a day or two, remember to lock away anything that isn’t fixed to the ground and alert a trusted neighbour who can alert you if they notice anything out of the ordinary.
If you’re ready to start putting some of these home security tips for seniors in place, get in touch with our team to learn more about how security tint can help to safeguard your home.
