Home Security for Windows

Most people spend a lot of time securing their home's exterior doors, but fail to pay adequate attention to their windows because they believe it to be either too time consuming or expensive.

How often windows are ignored is one of the prime reasons why most burglars view them as one of the premier points of entry in all houses that they have selected as possible targets. However, it is actually relatively easy and inexpensive to establish a home security plan for all areas of your household.

The simplest way to accomplish this goal is to hire a professional alarm monitoring service like ADT Wireless, Brink's Home Security, or Protect America for one low monthly payment. They use a combination of wireless technology and electronic security equipment to perform a thorough 24/7 monitoring of your home. An initial installation fee is charged, and a minimum three year agreement is usually required.

These services all come with a burglar alarm, at least one motion detector, and a minimum of two door or window activity sensors. The system is activated by using a keypad, and once it is active all physical activity or motion sets of a high decibel alarm which is immediately relayed to the monitoring service. They contact the residents via e-mail or telephone for verification, and then notify the appropriate local emergency personnel as needed.

These alarm monitoring services do not come with security camera coverage which some people view as a disadvantage, and that is why they develop their own security camera and monitoring service system which allows every camera to be monitored from one centralized location. They can be set up to focus on one specific object or an entire area as desired. Ideally, there would be at least one camera in each room where there was an exterior door or window.

Inadequately protected windows are extremely marks for professional intruders who have enough experience to know how to rather effortlessly force them open. Take the time to evaluate each of the windows in your home, with special attention being paid to those in the basement and at ground level. Determine each one's type, and the current locking device that is being used. How easily do you think it can be opened by an intruder?

Casement windows are probably the most secure because access can be denied by simply removing the handle. Sliding windows may be secured by buying a spring loaded burglar bar that fits between the sliding sash and the window frame. Double hung windows move up and down, and most come with a cam style lock that holds both sashes in place. An optional piece of hardware has been recently invented that can take this security even one step further.

For serious security, you may want to considering installing heavy-duty steel or iron security bars or grates across the exteriors of your basement windows. While these can be expensive, they do provide far better security than a lock by itself would. Ensure that the bars use quick-release latches so they can be opened from the inside in case of an emergency. Also, there should be at least one window in each room of the basement that can be opened or taken off from the inside without a key or tool.

Change the locks on your doors and windows as you deem necessary after your evaluation. Look into neighborhood watch programs, security fences, watch dogs, outdoor lighting systems, and remove all excess shrubbery from each entrance. Avoid becoming a burglar's next victim by taking the necessary steps to maximize your home's security today.

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