The start of each year provides an opportunity for setting new goals and resolutions to accomplish. And what better resolution is there than boosting the safety and security of your home? That’s why we’ve put together this list of solutions to consider that can make 2020 the safest year yet for you and your family:
Getting a New Furnace
We’ll start with one factor that most families don’t think about until there’s an obvious problem: the furnace. This year, have a professional come out and look at your furnace to make sure it’s in good condition. If your home’s furnace is old or malfunctioning in some way, it can pose a number of dangers for your household.
The most significant threat is carbon monoxide poisoning, as this invisible, odorless gas can cause serious—potentially fatal—health issues. A bad furnace can also lead to an increase of pathogens, mold, and dust circulating in your home, which can cause breathing problems for people in your household. Furthermore, if a furnace is not working properly, it can become a fire hazard.
HomeAdvisor notes the average cost of installing or replacing a furnace is currently between $2,543 and $6,121. Whether you pay within this range or pay more or less will depend on what type of furnace is installed. For instance, an electric furnace can run you anywhere from $1,700 to $7,000, while a gas furnace typically costs $2,000 to $10,000.
When you’re shopping for different types of furnaces, remember that labor will usually cost $500 to $2,000, depending on the furnace you choose and the scope of the work involved.
Having Your Roof Inspected
The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. As Medium explains, it’s also a critical structural component, and if it’s compromised in any way, it can lead to severe structural problems which can pose safety concerns for you and your family. Call a professional inspector to look your roof over for any issues. If your roof is getting old, has missing or damaged shingles, or displays any other problems, you should have it repaired or replaced appropriately.
Upgrading Your Security System
One of the most effective ways to protect your family and property is to invest in a quality home security system. There are many smart security systems on the market that can reduce the likelihood of your home falling victim to burglary or other property crimes.
Go for a security package that includes features like surveillance cameras, door and window sensors, and a doorbell camera. Many systems can be installed DIY-style, and monitoring runs from free to $59.99 per month, depending on the service and features selected.
Taking Additional Safety Precautions
A lot of maintaining a safe home comes down to the people living in it. To keep your family safe and secure, consider these precautions:
- Always keep exterior doors and windows locked.
- Make sure your entry doors are stable, and replace the door or add support if necessary.
- Trick burglars when no one is home by setting timers to turn your lights on and/or by using a fake TV simulator.
- Ask a neighbor to pick up your mail and park their car in your driveway when you’re on vacation.
- Keep your valuables well-hidden from outside observers.
- Add motion sensors and warning signs to your front yard and backyard.
Nothing is more important than ensuring the safety of your family and property. Get professionals out to look at your furnace and roof, and have them repaired or replaced accordingly. Also, research the many types of home security options on the market, and choose what will work best for your family’s needs. Finally, be sure to follow essential protocols that will help protect your home, both when you’re at home and away.
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