Every day, numerous homes in Kenya fall victim to break-ins, often due to homeowners overlooking essential security measures.
Despite advancements in home security solutions, many individuals overlook basic traditional precautions, such as ensuring doors are consistently closed, regardless of whether one is at home. This oversight has left residences vulnerable to potential burglaries.
In this blog, we will look into the prevalent security lapses identified by our seasoned security experts, shedding light on common mistakes made by homeowners. Additionally, we shall provide valuable security tips to guide you in creating a safe and secure haven for your family.
Common Home Security Mistakes in Kenya
Hiding Spare Key Outside
It's time to say goodbye to that spare key hidden under the door mat, or placed under a potted plant on your verandah.
If you opt to retain the conventional lock, make certain it's discreetly stored in a secure location such as a lock box or under the watchful care of a trusted individual.
While the traditional lock may retain its functionality, embracing a Smart Key Lock is recommended. This innovative technology allows you to safeguard and access your home from any location.
Posting Your Plans on Social Media
Yes, your buddies want to see your stunning vacation photos but they can also wait until you get back home.
Sharing a detailed plan of your itinerary such as locations, schedules, and dates of travel could inadvertently tip off potential burglars about your vacant house.
Exercise caution when sharing personal information online, and if you choose to do ensure it's limited to your connections.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
I bet you've heard of cases where a non-functional security camera couldn't capture a robbery incident, it happens but how do you avoid it?
While technology is not flawless and can fail due to various technical issues, it's crucial to take proactive steps such as regularly inspecting and servicing your security equipment to ensure they consistently perform as intended.
Not Leaving Security Lights On
Burglars often avoid targeting homes equipped with security lights to minimize the risk of being detected.
A mistake among homeowners is forgetting to switch on their security lights. To ensure the safety of your home, it is recommended to activate your security lights at appropriate times or consider upgrading to modern automatic security lighting systems.
Home Security Tips for Kenyan Homeowners
Adopt Modern Security Solutions
In this time and age, a home without a modern security system such as an alarm system is susceptible to burglary.
While an alarm system or a video surveillance camera won’t completely deter criminal activities, not having one installed is a security gamble you wouldn't want to get into.
Think Like a Criminal
What steps would you take to regain access to your house if you accidentally left your key inside without resorting to damaging the door?
To avert or identify potential security lapses in your home, it's advisable to ‘think like a criminal’ by finding security weaknesses and strengthening them.
Avoid Leaving Valuables in Plain Sight
You can safeguard your home valuables by taking a few simple precautions:
- Close blinds after sunset.
- Ensure doors and windows are closed.
- Break down large boxes of valuable items like TVs, sound systems, or computers.
These seemingly straightforward steps play a crucial role in preventing criminals from spotting your valuable possessions.
Know Your Neighbour
How well do you know your neighbour? Do you know their names as well?
According to a Pew research study, 25% of adults below the age of 30, don't know any of their neighbours.
Although many Kenyans may claim to be familiar with their neighbours, a significant number is limited to recognizing their presence rather than knowing their names.
Get to know those you share the community resources with. These measures not only improve your home security but also improve the overall safety of the neighbourhood.
Conclusion-Home Security Begins by Following Simple Yet Crucial Tips
In conclusion, incorporating the aforementioned security measures, along with integrating cutting-edge wireless security technologies such as smart locks, panic buttons, control panels, kitchen smoke detectors, and door magnetic controls, while also considering supplementary services like home insurance, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your home and its possessions.
Upgrading the security of your home is not just a recommendation; it's a proactive step towards providing your family with the peace of mind they rightfully deserve.
For comprehensive home security solutions, including CCTV cameras, keyfobs, sirens, electric fencing, alarm systems and more, consider choosing SGA Home Security Solutions, a trusted provider in the region.