Depending on the location of your property and what surrounds it, you could be at risk for various security risks. These can range from natural disasters to manmade losses like crime, superfund sites and underground storage tanks.
When an assessor visits your home to evaluate your property, you can make sure that they are aware of all potential hazards.
Security Lighting
Illuminating entry points, dark corners, and other areas of your property increases safety and security while deterring burglars. Security lighting is often more cost effective than traditional burglar alarm systems, and it is more user-friendly for homeowners. Combined with other security measures such as door and window locks, it can provide an additional layer of protection against break-ins.
The best security lights are activated by motion sensors or passive infrared (PIR) sensor technology that can detect movement on your property, says Blackacre. Once detected, the fixture will immediately switch on, flooding the area with bright light. The sudden burst of illumination is a strong deterrent and will draw the attention of potential intruders. Many modern security lights can also be programmed to sound a chime or trigger an alarm when motion is detected.
When shopping for security lighting, look for fixtures with a high lumen rating. This will ensure that the bulbs can produce a bright and even illumination that is visible from far away. It is also a good idea to choose fixtures that have adjustable sensitivity, which allows you to adjust the level of illumination based on your unique needs and preferences. Lastly, look for options that have timers built in, which allow you to establish predetermined schedules for the fixtures to turn on and off.
Ideally, the security lighting you choose should be directed downward to minimize light trespass onto neighbors’ properties and public spaces. This is especially important if your home is located in an area with dark sky regulations that require that outdoor lighting be positioned to minimize upward light pollution, preserving the natural darkness of the night sky.
Be sure to regularly clean your security lights to remove dirt, dust, and other debris that may accumulate over time. In addition, it is a good idea to periodically inspect the fixtures for loose or damaged wires and connections, and trim any overgrown vegetation that could obstruct their path of illumination. Regular maintenance helps to keep your security lights working optimally, and it also contributes to the longevity of the bulbs.
Outdoor Lighting
If you have friends and family over for BBQs and other gatherings outside after dark, it’s important that the surrounding areas are well-lit. Otherwise, guests may be at risk of tripping or falling due to darkness and uneven surfaces. Landscape lighting can highlight tripping hazards like steps, stairs and pool sides to reduce accidents.
Lighting can also boost your home’s nighttime curb appeal, showcasing architectural features or illuminating plantings and walkways that create interest around the house. For example, a garage door can be highlighted with wash or down lights that will showcase this often understated feature while deterring burglars and enhancing security.
Outdoor lighting can also help to deter crime by making it easier for homeowners and neighbors to see people or vehicles approaching the property. This is particularly important because criminals can lurk in shadowy areas and may be undetected by residents.
Another way landscape lighting can increase safety is by illuminating walkways and paths for easy navigation. This can be especially useful if you have children that are prone to tripping or older adults who need extra guidance after the sun goes down. Additionally, having lights along pathways can prevent slips and falls by highlighting changes in surface texture or elevation.
Finally, having outdoor lighting can make it easier for first responders to locate and enter a property during emergency situations. This can save valuable time and potentially save lives. In addition to lighting up entrances and driveways, strategically placed lights can highlight emergency equipment like fire hydrants or ambulances so that they can be found quickly. This is a crucial benefit that many homeowners don’t consider when evaluating the need for lighting. When considering the need for landscape lighting, be sure to speak with a qualified professional about your needs and current goals. They can help you determine which types of fixtures will work best to meet these goals while keeping your home safe and looking its best. Then, they can help you implement a lighting plan that will achieve these goals with minimal effort and maximum benefits.
Security Cameras
If a property has a lot of potential crime or security risks, it might be worthwhile to invest in security cameras. These devices can be a powerful deterrent for criminals, and they can also provide important evidence in the event of a theft or other incident. However, they can be expensive to install and maintain. So, how can you assess whether security cameras are a good investment for your property?
A good rule of thumb when buying security cameras is to buy from a reliable brand with a history of protecting user privacy. Make sure the cameras are encrypted to keep data secure, and look for features like a password-protected screen. Also, be sure to change your password regularly so that hackers cannot gain access to your cameras.
When choosing a camera system, determine the areas of your property that need monitoring, such as doors, windows, loading docks, and alleys. Then, make sure the radius of the cameras covers these areas without creating any blind spots.
It’s also a good idea to choose cameras with night vision capability. These cameras use infrared spectrum light to illuminate dark areas, allowing you to see what’s happening at all times, even when it isn’t daytime. Finally, consider if you want the cameras to connect wirelessly or via Power Over Ethernet (PoE), which eliminates the need for multiple cords and simplifies installation.
Many cameras now offer motion detection, which allows them to record only when there is activity. This can help reduce bandwidth and storage requirements, as minor scene changes won’t be recorded. However, be aware that minor changes can still occur due to things like natural lighting or wind, so you’ll want to test the cameras to see if they can distinguish between these and actual movement.
Another benefit of security cameras is that they can help protect the innocent if you are ever unfairly accused of a crime or infraction. Having video evidence can help prove your innocence, and it can also prevent costly legal fees.
Security cameras can also improve your property’s resale value by offering a sense of safety and security to buyers. They’re a great deterrent against thieves and vandals, and they can also help you get lower insurance rates since they show that you’re taking proactive measures to reduce risk.
