7 tips for safe moving and new home security
(BPT) - A whopping 35 million people move each year, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. The warmer months are the most popular time to move, which means people across the country are planning their next steps right now in order to settle into their new home sweet home.
While moving is an exciting time, it also leaves your personal possessions and property vulnerable. Don’t let a dream move turn into a nightmare. In honor of National Moving Month, Master Lock is providing top safety precautions and useful products for moving and settling into a new residence.
Secure all valuables
Pack all valuables in enclosed, secured containers. For fragile or breakable items, use bubble wrap or shredded newspaper for an added layer of protection. In the midst of moving mayhem, remember to lock your trailer with a Master Lock 379DAT Universal Trailer Coupler Lock that resists picking and prying in order to avoid possible theft.
Inventory personal belongings
Label moving boxes by room, number or color-code, and create a list of the items in each box. This will keep your personal possessions organized for when you begin to unpack. When you arrive at your new home, make sure to check each list to ensure all your belongings made it safely and securely.
Immediately store valuables in a secure place
A Sentry Safe SFW123TTC Extra Large Digital Alarm Fire Safe will help ensure that your most important valuables and documents are protected as you settle into your home. While you may have heavy foot traffic between movers, cable providers and other vendors setting up your new space, this safe’s loud alarm will quickly alert you of any suspected tampering.
Change of address
To avoid unintentionally giving strangers access to personal information, such as billing statements, credit card offers and insurance information, change your address before your move. Visit your local post office or usps.com to fill out a change-of-address form.
Install new exterior locks
Did you know less than half of people moving change or rekey the locks on their new home? You should always change all the exterior locks on a new home either before or when you move in. Previous tenants, realtors and other people may have keys from the previous owner to the current locks. Replacing these old locks with new ones, such as the Master Lock BCCO0615 Entry Door Lock with Single Cylinder Deadbolt, will provide peace of mind, and ensure you are the only person who has access to your home.
Check for vulnerable areas
There’s no guarantee the previous homeowner or tenant maintained home security. It’s a smart idea to walk around your new home to verify proper lighting and trimmed landscaping, both of which are fundamental ways to deter break-ins. Plan to add lights to areas with dense shadows around doorways, and trim overgrown bushes and trees as needed.
Explore your neighborhood
Make sure to familiarize yourself with your new neighborhood. Take a bike ride to meet your neighbors, locate the police and fire stations and find your local park district. Don’t forget to lock up your bike with the Master Lock 8127TRI Keyed Cable Lock while out and about.