09/30/2013
Safety is important every month, but the National Association of Realtors has designated September as Realtor Safety Month. The emphasis goes beyond agents to sharing safety ideas with clients, too. Here are five do-it-yourself home checks to make your home more secure.
• Keep landscaping around your home trimmed. Is there overgrown shrubbery near entrances and windows? Keep entryways and windows clear and visible.
• Install motion detector lights. All sides of your home should be well-lit with motion-activating lighting. Simple versions can be found at most any home improvement store for less than $50. If the wiring is there, installing them yourself can be an easy job. If not, your Realtor can refer a handyman to assist you.
• Be sure to store your valuables. Thieves are going to take the easy way and the most accessible items. While some are brazen enough to steal large electronics or appliances, most are going to head straight for items that are easy to carry and market such as jewelry, guns and small electronics. As much as possible, make sure these items aren’t visible from windows. Walk through your home and determine whether there are items better stored in a safe deposit box. Purchasing and installing a home safe is another alternative for storing valuables.
• Remember your digital security. Apple recently released the newest version of the iPhone, which featured fingerprint security technology. In today’s world of always evolving technology, your digital security follows closely behind your personal security. Be sure any personal information stored on a home computer is backed up regularly. Also, make sure to password protect your login screen (don’t write your passwords down or store them nearby).
• Be prepared for the worst-case scenario. Hopefully, your home won’t be the one out of every 36 homes to be burglarized this year, but being prepared is never a bad idea. Take an inventory of your valuables, photographing them and noting any serial numbers. You can also utilize any of a number of apps or online sources, such as http://knowyourstuff.com, to create a home inventory.
These are just a few standard home safety tips. For more ideas, consult with your insurance agent, local police station, fire station or www.houselogic.com. September Safety might be just the theme to implement in your home. Safer homes make for safer neighborhoods, which make for safer communities, and that’s something everyone can support.
Price Lechleiter is president of the Greater Nashville Association of Realtors. Contact him at 615-347-4688.
