Fall is an exciting season due to the colorful foliage, the start of school and cooler temperatures. But believe it or not, all of these changes can be correlated with changing security concerns.

Read on to learn how you can properly prepare your house and your security this upcoming fall season.

1. Landscaping

One lesser-known security fact is that landscaping matters when a thief is determining a home’s potential for break in. For example, thieves take advantage of overgrown shrubbery to hide in while they’re breaking in. Clearing hiding space in front of windows is important because 95% of all break-ins involve some sort of forceful entry, and windows are very susceptible. During fall, homeowners tend to let plants overgrow because they soon die or become dormant. Your yard needs less maintenance in the fall (besides raking all those leaves!), but don’t forget these tips to protect from break-ins:

  • Limit landscaping that blocks neighbors’ views of doors and windows. You may want privacy from neighbors, but they provide another set of eyes to watch your home. 
  • Pull dead plants in front of the house. Fewer plants provide fewer hiding spaces. 
  • Trim down shrubs and bushes, especially if they’re in front of windows. This can ensure security and help your yard look more polished.
  • Utilize thorny plants, such as rose bushes in front of windows. Thieves tend to avoid hiding in these plants.

For more tips, review documents on the common practice of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED).

2. School’s Back in Session

The start of fall signals the start of the new school year, which means there will be quite a few changes to your family’s schedule. For example, kids are getting home from school before parents get back from work. Ensure your kids to know basic security tips to prepare for this change.

If your home doesn’t already have a security system, consider purchasing one. Houses without them are 300% more likely to be burglarized. One feature that makes the start of school easier for the whole family is a security system with a mobile application. Using your smart phone from work, you’ll be able to:

  • Unlock and lock doors for your kids when they get home.
  • Watch live surveillance footage to double-check they get home safely.
  • Adjust the thermostat to warm up the house when school lets out.

3. Colder Temperatures

You’re probably using fuel-burning appliances at home more as the days get colder. After all, most homes are heated by appliances that run on natural gas. Unfortunately, they increase your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. In fact, leaking furnaces or boilers are one of the most common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning every year. Consider a security system that includes carbon monoxide detectors and energy management features, so that you can foster optimal energy usage while safeguarding against carbon monoxide leakage.

Related article: How to Maintain Home Security this Autumn

Have other ideas about fall security? Share in the comments below.