Complete Security & Home Safety Checklist

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Exterior Safety Tips Checklist

A well-protected perimeter is your first line of defence against potential intruders and unwanted visitors. Here's a home safety checklist Canada residents need to enhance their home's exterior security:

Landscaping

☐ Trimmed Shrubs and Trees: Regularly trim shrubs and trees near windows and doors to eliminate potential hiding spots for intruders.

☐ Clear Sightlines: Ensure clear sightlines from the street to your home's entrances and windows. This allows for better visibility and natural surveillance from neighbours and passersby.

☐ Well-lit Pathways: Illuminate pathways and entrances with adequate lighting to deter intruders and enhance safety for visitors.

Perimeter Security

☐ Secure Fences and Gates: Install sturdy fences and gates around your property with secure locks to prevent unauthorized access.

☐ Outdoor Security Cameras: Strategically place outdoor security cameras to monitor your property's perimeter, deter intruders, and capture evidence in case of an incident.

Lighting

☐ Motion-Activated Floodlights: Install motion-activated flood lights around your home's exterior to illuminate dark areas and deter potential intruders.

☐ Well-lit Address Numbers: Ensure your address numbers are clearly visible from the street, especially at night, to assist emergency responders in locating your home quickly.

Garage and Shed Security

☐ Secure Garage Doors: One of the most overlooked areas in a home safety checklist; keep your garage door closed and locked, even at home. Consider using a smart garage door opener to monitor and control access remotely.

☐ Shed Security: Secure your shed with a sturdy lock and consider adding an alarm or sensor for added protection. Valuable power tools and equipment stored in sheds can be attractive targets for thieves.

Additional Measures

☐ Neighborhood Watch: Participate in or initiate a Neighborhood Watch program to foster community awareness and cooperation in preventing crime.

☐ Visible Security Signs: Display security system signs prominently to deter potential intruders.

☐ Vary Your Routine: Avoid patterns in your daily routine, as criminals often observe homes to identify vulnerabilities.

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Emergency Plans and Fire Safety Checklist

While we all strive to prevent accidents and emergencies, it's important to be prepared for the unexpected. Here's a breakdown of essential emergency plans and a fire safety checklist every homeowner should consider.

Fire Escape Plan

☐ Multiple Escape Routes: Identify at least two escape routes from every room in your home, especially bedrooms.

☐ Practice Regularly: Practice your fire escape plan with your family at least twice a year. This helps everyone familiarize themselves with the routes and procedures.

☐ Designated Meeting Point: Establish a safe meeting point outside your home where everyone can gather after evacuating.

☐ Smoke Alarms: Ensure your smoke alarms are working correctly, and strategically place a smoke alarm throughout your home.

Related: Do Smoke Detectors Expire?

Fire Safety

☐ Fire Extinguishers: Keep fire extinguishers readily accessible in the kitchen and other key areas, and ensure everyone knows how to use them.

☐ Electrical Safety: Regularly inspect electrical cords and outlets, avoid overloading circuits, and address potential hazards promptly. If you have children in the home, always have child-resistant caps on unused outlets.

☐ Stop, Drop, and Roll Protocol: Teach family members the "stop, drop, and roll" technique if their clothing catches fire.

Emergency Contact List

☐ Important Numbers: Compile a list of essential phone numbers to call from a cell phone, including emergency services, poison control, family doctor, and trusted neighbours. Include this in your printed-out home safety checklist.

☐ Accessible Location: Keep the contact list in a readily accessible location, such as on the refrigerator or near the phone.

☐ Save Important Contacts: Ensure everyone in the household has these numbers saved in their mobile phones.

Disaster and Emergency Preparedness Kit

☐ First Aid Kit: Maintain a well-stocked first aid kit with essential supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.

☐ Essential Supplies: Prepare a disaster preparedness kit with items like bottled water, reusable plastic bags, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a radio, blankets, and a first aid kit.

☐ Specific Needs: Include any specific items your family might need, such as baby supplies, pet food, or medications.

Take Home Safety to the Next Level

This home safety checklist is a great starting point for protecting your family and property. But true peace of mind comes from knowing you have a trusted partner in security.

PasWord Protection offers a wide range of security solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our expert team can help you assess your home's vulnerabilities, recommend the right security systems, and ensure seamless installation and integration. We provide ongoing support and 24/7 monitoring, giving you the confidence that your home and loved ones are always protected.

Don't leave your home's safety to chance. Contact PasWord Protection today for a free consultation.