These days, security is more than a hot topic.
Thus, according to a report published on August 2 by Statistics Canada, the break and enter rate in Quebec had decreased by 12% in 2020, mainly due to the pandemic, which caused people to leave the house less. . However, the report notes an increase for 2021.
However, although there is no reason to worry too much, it would still be very commendable to act as a preventive measure, if only to feel completely safe in one’s own home. How ? Here are three ways to do this.
1. Secure your front door
In fact, one-third of intrusions in Quebec are made through the front door, so it is more than necessary to reinforce security, if only by means of a peephole (this is the small eye in the door to see the visitor), a bell with integrated microphone and camera, an internal locking system or even a new lock.
Know that a motivated and experienced thief will overcome your lock, the difference will be in the time required to open the door. A low-end lock will take a few minutes, while a high-end, grade 1 model can take up to 20 minutes, according to proassistance.ca.
The most secure locks are those with a deadbolt and a controlled key, because they do not pick and cannot be copied without the signature of the lock holder.
2. Protect your windows and patio door
If the door resists the entry of an intruder into your home, the latter will probably try to pass through one of the windows or the French window of the apartment.
A security bar for patio doors or sliding windows increases security, as does adding a latch to the floor of the patio door, which will prevent it from being lifted. There are also key locks for the windows, to protect you.
Make sure all your windows are locked, especially those at ground level.
It is often thought that a ground floor window located about 5-6 feet from the ground will be difficult to reach, but think again, since your recycling bin could make a very good ladder!
3. Learn about surveillance home automation
Nowadays, technology is omnipresent, even when it comes to ensuring the security of your home! Indeed, it is now possible to buy surveillance devices allowing you to see on your digital device any visitor in real time, at any time of the day.
Moreover, who says electronic surveillance also says cost… Indeed, it is possible to be monitored 24 hours a day for only $500 by purchasing a basic system.
Generally, the basic sets include contacts for doors and windows, a smoke detector and an infrared motion detector. These surveillance tools are linked to a central unit which, for a monthly rental fee of $20 to $45, can notify the authorities as soon as the alarm is triggered.
Electronic surveillance has a cost, of course, but the money spent on this can be partly recovered by lowering home insurance premiums, with a discount of up to 25%.
Tips
- When you go on vacation, tell your next door neighbors and ask them to watch for suspicious individuals.
- Remember to take out tenant insurance, which will compensate you in the event of theft.
- Adequate lighting, which will simulate your presence in the accommodation, is also very useful for protection.