As Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs pyramid shows us, safety and security are some of our most fundamental needs. Taking safety measures to look after yourself and your home should be top priority. Some are things you’re probably already doing. Others you may not have thought about.

We compiled this list to help you take the right safety measures for your life.

Below is a list of some simple and cost effective safety measures you can take:

1. Smoke/fire alarms in all bedrooms as well as your kitchen and hallway at a minimum
2. Carbon monoxide detectors in every bedroom

3. Fire extinguisher (x2- one in kitchen and one in master bedroom at a minimum)
4. Contents insurance- be sure to have more than you think you need because something will come up and you will find not having it can be a real issue in an emergency situation. An investment in insurance is an investment in yourself.
5. Double doors- a traditional door with a locking screen door outer door
6. More a New Zealand specific safety measure if you own your own home- switching from the traditional push out windows without screens to slide up/down windows with screens. Provides some added security while having your windows open.
7. Consider using keypad door locks with a key backup. 
8. Invest in a security camera for your front door that you can monitor online or from your phone
9. Have your gutters cleaned once a year to avoid problems with water leakage and mold.
10. Put locks on your garbage cans to avoid unwanted animals (or humans) going through your trash.
11. Get lockable filing cabinet and a shredder to keep your important documents safe from prying eyes.
12. If you don’t have an air conditioning or air purifying system in your home make sure that you open your windows and doors as frequently as you can (safely) to keep the home aired and moisture free.

13. Do a spring clean at least once a year. It is called spring clean for a reason – it keeps your house free from a buildup of materials that can cause allergies especially if you have pets. 
14. Get to know your neighbors. They can keep an eye out for you about anything unusual happening around your home.
15. Have an outside security light that is movement activated.
16. Don’t post on social media while you are away from home about being away from home. Wait until you have returned. It gives thieves an opportunity knowing you are not around.
17. Home automation allowing you to turn lights on and off and operate curtains so that you can make it look like someone is home even when you are not.
18. Use deadbolts on sliding glass doors and other less secure windows
19. Keep a list of serial numbers and photos of appliances, electronics and other assets that you have insured. This makes it much easier if you need to submit a claim.