Home Safety & Security Tips for Northern Virginia Home Owners

 

Any owner of Northern Virginia real estate knows the importance of keeping a safe and secure home to protect our families and our investment. It is important to periodically pay attention to the items on the below list because things change over time.

A quick once-over of the items on this list may improve the safety and security of your home and could protect your family and friends. If you currently have a house for sale in Northern Virginia, you can assure the safety of buyers and agents visiting your home as well.

Security

  • Does each exterior door have a deadbolt lock?
  • Does the lock on each window work properly?
  • Have you added pins or clips to your windows for additional security?
  • Do you have poles or broom sticks in the track of windows and sliding glass doors?
  • Do you have security company labels or signs displayed prominently on the property?
  • Do you have an alarm system? Is the system monitored?
  • Do you have a dog that barks when strangers approach the home?
  • Are emergency numbers posted near all telephones?

Fire

  • Do you have smoke detectors near all bedrooms and on each floor?
  • Do you check detector batteries monthly and change them annually?
  • Do you have two carbon monoxide detectors?
  • Do you have an escape ladder for upper floors?
  • Do you have fire extinguishers near exits and in the kitchen?
  • Do you have an emergency escape plan and do you practice with your family?
  • Are any outlets or switches warm to the touch?
  • Are there any unused extension cords plugged into outlets?
  • Are kitchen ventilation systems working properly?
  • Is the dryer ventilated to the outside and do you clean the exhaust hose?
  • Is the furnace cleaned and serviced on a yearly basis?
  • Is the space around the hot water heater clear of combustible materials?

Falls

  • Are all electrical and phone cords covered or out of the flow of traffic?
  • Are rugs and runners slip resistant?
  • Is your step-stool sturdy and in good condition?
  • Are stairs clear of objects that could cause a fall?
  • Are all entrance ways, exits, halls and walks well lit?
  • Do you have flashlights or emergency lighting for power outages?
  • Do bath tubs and showers have non-skid strips or suction mats in them?
  • Are outdoor walkways free of roots, ivy or toys?

Other

  • Do you keep drugs and medicines out of reach and sight of small children?
  • Are interior doors designed so small children cannot lock themselves in rooms?
  • Are pool and outdoor play areas fenced to keep small children in and uninvited guests out?
  • Are firearms kept locked and out of reach and sight of children?
  • Is a well-stocked first aid kit available for emergencies?
  • Is there one member of your family trained in first aid, CPR and the Heimlich maneuver?
  • Do you have charts or directions on these techniques accessible for reference?

Monitoring this list not only provides your family and visitors a safe environment, but also increases the value and demand for your Northern Virginia home and the surrounding neighborhood.

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