Moving to a new area and home is an exciting time for military families, especially if you're a first-time homebuyer.
As a new homeowner, there are a few steps you need to take before unpacking those boxes to help ensure your new castle is as secure as possible. Take a look at six ways to help protect your family and important items after moving into a new home.
Photo by RossHelen via Canva.com
1. Change the Locks
The absolute first step to take to secure your new home is to change the locks. You can never be sure who has a key or where random copies have been left in the past. By having the locks changed immediately, you know exactly where all the copies are located and have control over who you give one to. This can be done with tools and supplies from your local hardware store, or a professional locksmith can do it for you.
Smart locks are now widely available. These allow keyless entry and remote access, which may be more convenient for military families who move frequently. If you have smart locks, change the codes immediately.
If you have an automatic garage opener, reprogram the remote to ensure yours is the only one capable of opening the door. Many modern systems also allow remote monitoring and temporary access codes for added security.
2. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Protecting your new home involves more than just keeping intruders away. One of the first steps to take when you move in is to check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Try the test button to ensure the alarms themselves are working and then replace all the batteries.
By doing this at once, you create a baseline for when they were last changed. Make a note of this information. Most experts suggest checking detectors monthly and replacing batteries at least once a year or when low-battery chirps occur.
3. Install a Monitored Security System
Another way to protect your home is to have a monitored security system installed. This type of system keeps a watchful eye over your home while you're away, including notifying the proper authorities if an alarm is triggered, there's a fire, or some other emergency. Most of today's companies offer reasonable monthly rates that make this level of safety budget-friendly.
Many homeowners now use smart home security systems that integrate cameras, door/window sensors, and app notifications. This can replace traditional monitoring services. Keep in mind that some insurers may offer discounts on homeowners insurance policies for using smart devices.
A first-time home buyer should consider whether a security system with smart integration could protect both their family and their investment from day one.
Photo by AndreyPopov from Getty Images via Canva.com
4. Meet the Neighbors
Because military families transfer locations frequently, it’s important to get acquainted with new neighbors every time a move occurs. They can serve as great support and help you know that your family is safe, even when your job requires you to be away for lengthy periods.
They say that good fences make good neighbors. Yet the fact of the matter is that nosy neighbors actually make good neighbors. Why? These are the people most likely to notice if something is amiss.
For example: They know the military member is gone for extended periods, and your spouse comes home from work at 7 p.m. However, if they see an unusual vehicle at your home earlier in the day, they could be more apt to call the police or at least alert you. Simply put, introduce yourself early and form a positive relationship from the start.
5. Illuminate the Home's Exterior
Intruders often break into homes and unoccupied vehicles under the cover of darkness. One easy way to keep this from happening is by illuminating the exterior of your home. Keep a porch light on or install a timer that turns it on at a set time every evening. You can also opt for motion sensor lights.
Modern smart outdoor lighting can be automated via apps, linked to motion sensors, and even mimic occupancy when the house is empty, which is helpful for military families away for long stretches.
6. Purchase a Safe for Valuables
Consider investing in a fireproof and waterproof safe for your valuables. Most safes these days are also portable and firearm-approved, giving you extra protection for important documents, jewelry, electronics, and other valuables—especially helpful for military families who move frequently.
Moving frequently can understandably be challenging for military families. But by keeping these six tips in mind, you can rest assured that your family and valuables remain safe in your new home. Consider checking with your insurance provider for discounts when using smart security devices or safes.
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or you've been a homeowner for years, these tips can make your move smoother and your home more secure from the very first day.
For more first-time homeowner tips, connect with MilitaryByOwner and stay updated on practical ways to protect your investment and family, especially during upcoming PCS moves.
About the Author: Wes Wernette is Head of Marketing at FireKing Security Group in New Albany, Indiana. The company focuses on broad-based security and asset protection in residential and commercial markets with products like safes, fireproof file cabinets, and more.
