Owning a home comes with new responsibilities, and safety should be your top priority.
From securing doors and windows to testing smoke detectors, simple steps can make a big difference.
This guide covers essential tips to keep your home safe, secure, and protected.
Letโs get started!
TLDR
1. Secure the Doors and Windows First
Did you know that nearly 34% of burglars enter through the front door according to Reolink?
Thatโs a significant number. Securing your doors and windows is your first line of defense.
What You Can Do
- Replace the locks: The day you get the keys, think about changing the locks. You never know who had access to the home before you.
- Upgrade to smart locks: If youโre in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, smart locks can add convenience and extra security.
- Install window sensors: These can alert you to any unauthorized openings.
Use reinforced strike plates on your doors for added protection.
Theyโre inexpensive and make it harder for anyone to kick in the door.
2. Set Up a Home Security System
Deep Sentinel notes that homes without security systems are 300% more likely to be broken into.
Itโs a worthy investment.
What You Can Do
- Start simple: Doorbell cameras and motion sensors are affordable and effective.
- Consider professional monitoring: Services like ADT or Vivint offer real-time alerts.
- DIY options: Systems like Ring or SimpliSafe are easy to install and come with smartphone apps for monitoring.
If you live in urban neighborhoods, cameras near your entry points can deter package theftโa common issue in condo-heavy areas like Calgary and Vancouver.
3. Get to Know Your Neighbors
X mates note this:
First, get to know your neighbors,
then buy the house.
โ Thoughts. (@Thoughtsofficil) November 1, 2024
A strong community is one of the best, yet often overlooked, forms of home security.
Research shows that neighborhoods with active community engagement have lower crime rates.
Good neighbors can act as extra eyes and ears for your home, reporting unusual activity or helping out in emergencies.
Plus, building these relationships creates a sense of belonging that makes a house truly feel like home.
What You Can Do
- Introduce yourself: A friendly wave or quick chat can go a long way.
- Join local groups: Many neighborhoods in Canada have community Facebook groups or Nextdoor communities.
- Watch out for each other: Agree to collect mail or packages when one of you is away.
However, even in larger cities, such as Toronto or Vancouver, being proactive about fostering connections can make all the difference.
A neighbor noticing something out of place, like an unfamiliar car parked for too long, could prevent a break-in.
In smaller communities like Halifax or towns in Alberta, neighbors often naturally look out for one another. Donโt hesitate to reciprocate their kindness.
4. Light Up Your Space
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Burglars are less likely to target well-lit homes. Outdoor lighting can also reduce accidents and make your property more inviting.
What You Can Do
- Install motion sensor lights: Place them around driveways, porches, and backyards.
- Use solar-powered options: Theyโre eco-friendly and cost-effective.
- Set indoor timers: Keep lights on a timer when youโre away to make it appear like someone is home.
For weekend trips to Whistler or Banff, smart lighting systems let you control lights remotely for added security.
5. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
In Canada, fires result in hundreds of millions of dollars in damages annually according to WRI.
Protecting your home starts with prevention.
What You Can Do
- Test your detectors: Make it a habit to check them monthly.
- Replace batteries regularly: At least twice a year.
- Install in key areas: Bedrooms, hallways, and near kitchens are essential spots.
In provinces like Ontario, itโs mandatory to have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor.
6. Inspect Your Home Insurance Policy
Not all insurance policies are created equal. Gaps in coverage can leave you vulnerable to financial loss.
What You Can Do
- Review your policy: Check for exclusions and ensure adequate coverage for personal belongings.
- Consider add-ons: Flood insurance might be a good idea in areas like New Brunswick.
- Update regularly: Reassess your policy after major home improvements.
In snowy areas like Quebec, consider coverage for roof damage due to heavy snowfall.
Imagine moving into a charming older home in Winnipeg.
After a year, a heavy rainstorm floods your basement, causing extensive damage.
If your policy doesnโt include flood insurance, youโre left covering thousands of dollars in repairs out of pocket.
Taking the time to tailor your policy ensures youโre prepared for such events.
For a better understanding of how home insurance can protect you, visit eriemutual.com.
7. Upgrade the Landscaping
Well-maintained landscaping improves curb appeal and deters intruders.
What You Can Do
- Trim shrubs: Overgrown bushes can create hiding spots.
- Plant defensively: Thorny bushes under windows act as natural barriers.
- Clear snow in winter: Prevent accidents and discourage opportunists.
In Ottawa, where snow can pile up quickly, keeping pathways clear also makes it easier for neighbors and first responders to assist in emergencies.
8. Protect Against Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most common home insurance claims in Canada according to gov sources.
Prevention is key.
What You Can Do
- Inspect for leaks: Regularly check roofs, basements, and plumbing.
- Install sump pumps: Essential in flood-prone areas like Winnipeg.
- Use water leak detectors: They alert you to leaks before they cause significant damage.
Consider installing a rain barrel to collect water for your plants. Itโs an eco-friendly solution that saves on water bills and keeps your landscaping healthy year-round.
9. Reinforce Your Wi-Fi Network
An unsecured Wi-Fi network can act as an open door for hackers, exposing your personal information and even granting access to connected devices in your home.
Strengthening your network is a crucial step to protect your digital security.
What You Can Do
- Change default settings: Create a strong, unique password for your router.
- Enable encryption: Use WPA3 for the best protection.
- Update firmware: Regular updates patch vulnerabilities.
Use a guest network for visitors to keep your main system secure.
Consider investing in a high-quality router with built-in security features.
Some models offer malware detection, automatic firmware updates, and advanced parental controls to manage device usage.
10. Create an Emergency Plan
Having a family emergency plan can make all the difference when it comes to helping your household #GetPrepared. Here are some tips to help get you started: https://t.co/1EP3p9lPEb pic.twitter.com/HyRp0xcE7B
โ Get Prepared (@Get_Prepared) August 7, 2024
Natural disasters and emergencies can strike anytime. Being prepared can save lives and property.
What You Can Do
- Plan escape routes: Know the safest exits from your home.
- Pack a go-bag: Include water, food, first aid, and important documents.
- Stay informed: Sign up for local alerts about wildfires, storms, or other hazards.
In areas prone to wildfires, like parts of British Columbia, keep important belongings near exits for quick access.
