Even if you have a home security system installed, its possible to overlook the basic home security “don'ts”. It's these mistakes that keep you and family at risk for danger. So if you are doing the “don'ts” this would a great time to make the corrections and become more secure.

Never leave a set of keys in the car, not to mention you should never leave your car unlocked. If you do then a possible intruder could have access to your home.

Part of backyard security is to make sure that all storage buildings are locked at all times, that there are no tools or ladders laying around to give a intruder the opportunity to get into your home.

Your landscape should be kept neat. You don't want to allow an intruder the ability to hide in the bushes. Once a month check to make sure all exterior lighting is working properly if you have lighting that needs replacing, do it immediately.

At times we all get in a hurry and don't alarm our home security systems. Don't have regrets, take a few moments and arm your system. Test your home security system once a month and check all sensors. If your home security system is ten years old or older you may want to consider doing an upgrade or a total replacement. The latest technologies available in today's home security systems can give you more protection and reduce your risk of becoming a victim of a crime. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors need to be replaced every 10 years and in some cases sooner depending on the environment.

Check you windows and doors for damage or worn parts. Putting off these repairs such as a broken lock put you and your family at risk. When replacing a door lock make sure you avoid the danger of lock bumping and that the manufacturer you choose has the latest technology to keep you safe.

One of the most common mistakes homeowners do is hide a key around the exterior of there home. There is no safe place outside the home to hide a key, such as, under a doormat, flower pot or landscape rocks. Under no condition should you feel you need to hide a key, if you or your family members continually misplace your keys there are terrific technologies available like fingerprint locks (biometrics), keyless keypads locks and card readers.

The basics can be the simplest way to protect you from an intruder. Take a few minutes everyday to help keep you and your family safe.