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Five ways to secure your home for winter

Black front entry door of a home featuring a frosted glass panel and a smart door lock.
Protecting your home during the winter months is easier than you might think. There are a variety of products (from old-school locks to high-tech cameras) that can increase security around your home, providing you and your family with peace of mind. Here are five tips for securing your home.

1. Lock it up

Door locks might seem antiquated, but they are still your first and best line of defence. There are a variety of options to choose from. Deadbolts or deadlocks are stronger than normal door locks, making it harder for intruders to break into your home. Digital locks are handy because they’re keyless – all you need to do is remember a code to unlock them. 

And don’t overlook the simple padlock: they come in a wide range of sizes, strengths and security levels and are ideal for securing back gates, sheds and garages.

Want to know more about securing your entry doors?

Light brown entrance door with brass locks and handle.

2. Light it up

Lights are an excellent security precaution. (Even the sight of switched-off lights can deter potential burglars.) Lights are also a practical safety addition to your home, as they increase visibility for you and your visitors.

It’s important to have security lights all the way around your house – front and backyards, over the entryways and garages and along pathways. Sensor lights are particularly useful, as they switch on when they detect movement. Solar powered lights are ideal for areas that don’t have easily accessible power sources.

Want to know more about outdoor lighting?

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3. Add a screen

Installing a screen door is a simple way to provide your home with an extra layer of security. This visual deterrent allows you to see who’s at the door before you open it. Screen doors also allow airflow through the home and come in a wide variety of styles and colours.  

Want to know more about installing a screen door?

  • Screen doors are easy to install – we have a step-by-step guide to walk you through the D.I.Y. process.

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4. Check your smoke alarms

Working smoke alarms are one of the easiest and best ways to protect your home, especially during the winter, when there is an increased use of heaters and fireplaces. Protect the lives of your entire household by ensuring your smoke alarms are working properly, and make sure to test and replace the batteries at least once a year. (It’s easy to change a smoke alarm battery yourself, and you can recycle your used batteries directly with Bunnings stores throughout New Zealand.) Make sure you’re clear on your area’s smoke alarm legislation and understand the requirements before purchasing and installing.

Want to know more about installing a smoke alarm?

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5. Automated protection

With the advent of smart security systems that can be linked to your smartphone, it has never been easier to keep an eye on your home at all times, from just about any location. 

Security cameras are a double deterrent. Their very presence can encourage unwanted people to stay away, and they allow you to monitor your home 24/7. Many come with a DVR and an app that lets you view your footage remotely. (Here are a few things to consider before installing security cameras. With modern security camera technology, you can ensure the safety of your home and family from wherever you are. Check out this guide to using modern cameras to improve your home security.

The Ring Video Doorbell is another innovative wireless security product that is controlled via the handy Ring app or an Alexa-enabled device. (Mobile phone not included.) The Ring Video Doorbell detects motion and sends an alert before the doorbell is even pressed, while the convenient two-way chat system allows you to communicate instantly and directly. (Ring’s products allow you to keep an eye on your home 24/7. Check out these easy to install home security must-haves.)

Want to know more about smart security systems?

Safeguard your home

For more safety and security ideas for your home, check out our D.I.Y. guide on how to install the basics, like cameras, deadbolts and window alarms.

 

Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer. You can also use a simple test kit from Bunnings to indicate the presence of lead-based paint.