Securing Your New Home: A Post-Move Safety Checklist

After the last box is unpacked, there's one more crucial task: securing your new home. You don't know who had keys to your property before you, so taking immediate steps to ensure your family's safety is essential. This checklist will guide you through the most important post-move security measures.

1. Change or Re-key the Locks

This should be your top priority. The previous owners, their friends, or even contractors could still have keys.

Change the Locks: The most secure option is to replace all exterior door locks completely.
Re-key the Locks: A more budget-friendly option is to have a locksmith re-key the existing locks, rendering old keys useless.
Don't Forget: This includes front and back doors, garage doors, and any other access points.

2. Secure Doors and Windows

Inspect All Locks: Check that every window and door lock is functioning correctly. Replace any that are broken or flimsy.
Add Deadbolts: If your exterior doors don't have deadbolts, install them. They provide significantly more protection than a standard lock.
Sliding Doors: For sliding glass doors, use a security bar in the track and consider adding a secondary lock.

3. Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Test Every Unit: Go through the house and test every smoke and carbon monoxide detector.
Replace Batteries: Install fresh batteries in all detectors, even if they seem to be working.
Check Expiration Dates: Most detectors have a lifespan of about 10 years. Replace any that are outdated.

4. Plan Your Emergency Escape Route

Map it Out: Draw a floor plan of your new home and map out at least two escape routes from every room.
Practice with Your Family: Once you have a plan, practice it with your entire family, including children. Make sure everyone knows where to meet outside.

5. Install a Home Security System

A security system is one of the most effective deterrents against break-ins.

Professional Installation vs. DIY: Decide whether you want a professionally monitored system or a DIY system that you monitor yourself via a smartphone app.
Key Features: Look for systems with door and window sensors, motion detectors, and security cameras.
Visible Deterrents: Make sure to display the security system's signs and stickers. They can be enough to make a potential intruder think twice.

6. Secure Your Wi-Fi Network

An unsecured Wi-Fi network can be a gateway for criminals to access your personal information and even your smart home devices.

Change the Default Password: Immediately change the default administrator password on your router.
Use a Strong, Unique Password: Create a strong password for your Wi-Fi network itself.
Enable WPA2 or WPA3 Encryption: This is the most secure type of encryption for Wi-Fi networks.

7. Update Outdoor Lighting

Motion-Sensor Lights: Install motion-activated lights around the perimeter of your home, especially near entrances and dark corners.
Well-Lit Pathways: Ensure that walkways, driveways, and entrances are well-lit to eliminate hiding spots for intruders.

8. Get to Know Your Neighbors

Good neighbors can be one of your best security assets. They can keep an eye on your home when you're away and report any suspicious activity.

Introduce Yourself: Make an effort to meet the people living around you.
Join a Neighborhood Watch: If your community has a neighborhood watch program, join it.

Conclusion

Taking the time to run through this safety checklist is one of the most important things you can do after moving into a new home. By being proactive about security, you can protect your property, your valuables, and most importantly, your family. A secure home is a peaceful home, so make these tasks a priority as you settle in.

What's the first thing you do to make a new house feel like a safe home? Share your tips in the comments!