The Home Safety Checklist You Didn’t Know You Needed

When we think about home safety, it's easy to picture alarm systems and insurance policies. But the truth is, staying safe at home means taking a more holistic approach. 

From deterring petty thieves to preventing accidents and preparing for emergencies, a well-rounded home safety checklist can help protect your property, your family, and your peace of mind.

Here’s what every homeowner should have covered—and why now might be a good time to bring in a local expert from ServiceSeeking.com.au to help tick off the essentials.

1. Secure Entry Points

Thieves often look for the easiest way in. Make it hard for them.

• Install deadbolts on all exterior doors.
• Use Crimsafe doors or similar security screens for added strength.
• Fit window locks and consider security film or reinforced glass.
• Motion sensor lights near doors and pathways deter intruders.
• Don’t rely on high fences alone—if someone gets over and can’t be seen, it gives them more time.

Helpful tip: Open and visible entrances are safer. They make suspicious activity more obvious to neighbours or passers-by.

2. Invest in Smart Security

Technology won’t always stop a break-in, but it can provide critical evidence and act as a deterrent.

• Security cameras with both wired and cloud backups offer peace of mind.
• Alarm systems (with battery backup/UPS) can protect even when you're asleep or during blackouts.
• Remote monitoring lets you check in from anywhere.
• Some systems allow you to trigger alarms remotely, which is handy if you spot something unusual.

Service call-out: Get a licensed electrician or security tech to install these properly—many insurance providers require proof of professional installation.

3. Dog Deterrents and Neighbourhood Awareness

A barking dog does more than you think.

• Even small dogs can discourage would-be intruders.
• Visible dog signs (even if you don’t own one) can have an impact.
• Get to know your neighbours. Look out for each other. A tight-knit street is one of the best forms of passive security.

4. Don’t Advertise Your Absence

Burglars often target homes when they think no one’s around.

• Use timers to switch lights on and off while you’re away.
• Avoid leaving lights on 24/7—it’s a dead giveaway.
• Hold your mail or ask a neighbour to collect it.
• Don’t post about holidays or valuables on social media.

5. External Appearance Matters

How your house looks from the outside can influence whether it’s targeted.

• Keep hedges trimmed low near windows and entryways.
• Use thorny plants like bougainvillaea under vulnerable windows.
• Padlock side gates and garden sheds.
• Install floodlights at key points like driveways and dark corners.

Every extra layer—whether it’s lighting, a lock, or a sensor—adds time and risk for an intruder, which often sends them elsewhere.

(Image source :Pexels)

6. Fire Prevention and Detection

House fires are rare but devastating. Simple checks go a long way.

• Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom and hallway.
• Test alarms monthly and change batteries yearly.
• Keep fire extinguishers and fire blankets in the kitchen.
• Don’t overload powerboards and avoid using damaged cords.
• Have a fire escape plan—especially if you’ve installed window bars.

Helpful tip: Electricians on ServiceSeeking can audit your smoke alarms, wiring, and appliances for hidden risks.

7. Insurance and Backup Plans

Even the best-prepared homes can still face break-ins, storms, or other emergencies.

• Make sure your home and contents insurance is up to date.
• Take photos of valuables and save receipts for high-ticket items.
• Back up important digital files in the cloud and on a hard drive.
• Store emergency contacts, copies of ID, and a small cash float in a safe place.

A well-rounded home safety checklist isn't just about locks and lights. It’s about being prepared for a range of situations, from break-ins and fires to protecting pets, kids, and elderly relatives.

While it’s tempting to tick these tasks off on your own, professional help ensures they’re done right—and quickly. From electricians and locksmiths to home security experts and handymen, ServiceSeeking.com.au connects you with trusted tradespeople in your area.

Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Start ticking off your checklist today and make your home safer for everyone who lives in it.