There are a large number of homes which have a garage, either attached to the home or as a separate building. Whatever one you have, security is crucial to keep both it and your home safe and a deterrent to intruders. Garages are often ignored when it comes to security, but it is often the weak spot which helps an intruder gain access to the home. Garage doors should be well fitted by a professional, secure and kept closed when not in use.
One of the first options for keeping your garage secure is to use a security system. If you have a security alarm on the house, you could wire the garage up to your existing system. A wireless security system may be an option for a detached garage. There are some things that you can do to keep your garage secure at all times:
- If your garage door isn’t secure and needs replacing, it is a security risk. Consider new garage doors which are professionally installed. Although the cost may be a factor, especially when it comes to electric garage door prices, it’s pretty reasonable to purchase a good quality door at a reasonable price
- If you require windows in your garage, have them frosted so that intruders are unable to look inside. This is an effective deterrent, as they will not be able to see the type of car you drive or any other valuable items you keep there
- If you have remote control garage doors, don’t leave the opener in the car especially if it is parked on the road or driveway
- A peephole in the connecting door between garage and house is a safer way to be able to check the garage if you suspect anyone is in there
- Keep the connecting door to the garage locked at all times, even during the day when someone is home
- Don’t leave the garage doors open, even for a short time unless you are in the garage. It is possible to drive down a road and spot several garage doors left open at any time of day. Automatic garage doors will make it easier for you to keep the doors closed, especially in bad weather when you don’t want to get out of the car to close it. It may be possible to have a timer installed so that your garage doors will close automatically after a specified amount of time
- If you go on holiday, secure the garage thoroughly preferably using an alarm system. A professional garage door installer will be able to provide advice for the best way to secure your garage doors
Unless you take precautions to keep your garage doors secure at all times, you are leaving your home and garage vulnerable to intruders. Investing in a new door if necessary, will increase safety and may even help to reduce insurance premiums for your home and motor insurance. Take some time to examine your garage doors and decide whether they are secure.