Home Security Tips for the Summer

1. Front door surveillance. Because 34 percent of break-ins happen through the front door of a home,  install a smart doorbell that routes to your phone. Other security options Ooma mentions include two-way speakers that will give visitors the impression that you are home, or video cameras so you can see who’s at the door from your phone. 2. Secured windows. The second most common break-in location is a first floor window, the access point of 23 percent of burglars. Ooma recommends installing sash locks and wireless motion sensors that will alert the you if a window is opened or broken. 3. Don’t forget the AC unit. Pushing in a window air conditioning unit is another common break-in method. Install motion sensors near the AC unit, or remove the unit while you’re away. 4. Barring patio and sliding glass doors. Sliding doors should not only be locked, but should also have a barrier bar in the tracks. Ooma suggests you place motion detectors in this area as well. 5. Leave the lights on. The goal is to make the home appear lived in, even if you are vacationing or have already moved out. Ooma recommends smart lights that you can control from your phone, or at the very least, light timers. 6. Call 911 from afar.  Trying to reach the police from a remote location can take valuable minutes. Home security companies, including Ooma, offer remote 911 calling.