Many of us have taught our children to never open the door for a stranger, but how many adults take those same lessons and safety precautions seriously before answering the door? When it comes to front door safety, it’s ok to want to be friendly and courteous. But keep in mind that not everyone knocking on your door may have the same good intentions.
Take the necessary precautions to secure your door. Follow these simple safety tips and consider some additional security measures when answering your front door.
General Front Door Safety Tips
To most effectively run through some general front door safety tips, let’s play out a normal scenario. You’re relaxing in your living room, or getting dinner together in your kitchen. You hear a knock at your front door. But you’re not expecting company, or even a delivery. What should you do?
First, try to get an idea of who is at your door. Look out a window or a door viewer if you have one. That way, you can see who is there without the person knowing you are home. Based upon what you see, you can make a decision about how to proceed.
What to Do if a Stranger Knocks at Your Door
If you don’t recognize the unexpected guest, you don’t have to even open your door. Simply talk through the door. Ask the visitor who they are and what they want behind the closed and locked door. Ask for identification if necessary, especially if the guest is insistent. A legitimate visitor will understand and be happy to share ID with you.
You can also use a door chain. A chain lock provides some security while allowing you to open the door enough to get the visitor’s identification for review. A locked screen door in front of your normal door is also a great additional security measure that works similarly.
And remember, if you’re not comfortable or even simply not interested in listening to a sales pitch, it’s perfectly fine to send them home. If an unwanted visitor calls, or someone visits claiming to have an appointment you can’t verify, send them home. Tell them you’ll call to schedule their visit for another time.
Too often, people are afraid to make a decision like this out of politeness. Trust your instincts. If your gut is telling you that something is wrong, then simply don’t open the door.
Increase Your Security with a Video Doorbell
Front door safety gets even easier when you consider upgrading your security system. Once installed, you can use a video doorbell to see who is at the door from any smart device through a simple app, no matter where you are. Plus, it integrates perfectly with your current security system.
General Video Doorbell Tips
- Make the camera visible. A camera could deter someone with devious intentions. The camera itself will allow you to see who is at the door.
- Interact with the visitor using an intercom. This is an effective and affordable way to talk with a stranger without actually answering the door.
- Use your system camera to take a picture of the visitor and save it if you’re suspicious. Call the company the visitor claims to represent to make sure things are legitimate.
Video doorbells are simple, effective security tools that really add an extra layer to your front door safety. They make it easy to record live video and monitor your front door when you’re at work or away on vacation. Plus you’ll receive real-time alerts and updates of any activity.
For More Security and Home Automation Tips and Solutions, Stick with My Alarm Center
You’re never too old to learn valuable lessons. Especially when it comes to your safety and general security. And if you’re looking for more ways to keep yourself and your family safe, check out our home security and automation services at My Alarm Center. We offer a wide range of home security options to protect you and your family. If you’re ready to discuss our custom solutions, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you prepare for what’s next.