When it comes to protecting your loved ones, having a firearm is just one aspect of the equation. There are many things that you can do to ensure the safety of your family, and firearms are just one tool in your arsenal. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the other ways that you can keep your family safe. We will also talk about why having a firearm is not always the best solution.

Owning a firearm is only one part of home and family protection

To truly protect your home and family, you need to take a comprehensive approach that includes everything from being aware of your surroundings to having an emergency plan in place.

Your first line of defense is always going to be yourself. Pay attention to what’s going on around you and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Get insurance

If you have homeowners insurance, great! If you don’t, now is the time to get it. Homeowners insurance will protect your home in the event of a fire, theft, or other damage. But also, at ICNJ, you can see what can happen if your home is not insured. That way, you can make an informed decision about whether or not you need coverage.

Keep your home in good repair

This one seems like a no-brainer, but it’s important to keep your home in good repair. That means fixing any broken windows, repairing any holes in the walls, and making sure the roof is in good condition. A well-maintained home is less likely to be broken into, and it will also be safer in the event of a fire.

Install motion-sensor lights

Motion-sensor lights are a great way to deter criminals. If someone is lurking around your property, the lights will come on and scare them away. Motion-sensor lights are also a good way to light up dark areas around your home, which makes it safer for you and your family.

Be aware of your surroundings

This one is important no matter where you live. Pay attention to what’s going on in your neighborhood, and be aware of any suspicious activity. If you see something, say something. The more we all work together, the safer our neighborhoods will be.

If you are going on vacation, don’t post it all over social media. That is an invitation for burglars to come and rob your home while you’re away. Instead, wait until you get back to share your fun vacation photos.

Make your home look lived in

If you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time, have a friend or neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers. Nothing says “empty house” like a pile of uncollected mail and newspapers on the doorstep. And make sure your voicemail message sounds friendly, so callers don’t think twice about whether or not anyone is home.

Install good locks

This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t have deadbolts on their doors. If a burglar can simply turn the doorknob and walk right in, they will. So make it as difficult as possible for them to get into your home by installing good locks on all of your doors.

Install a security system

You can't be home all the time, and even when you are, you can't keep an eye on everything. A security system will help to give you some peace of mind. You can get one that just monitors your doors and windows, or go all out with a full-fledged system that includes cameras, motion detectors, and more. Also, be sure to let your neighbors know that you have a security system. They can keep an eye out when you're not home, and may even be able to provide footage from their own security cameras if something happens.

Security systems are a great way to protect your home, but they won't do much good if you don't use them properly. Be sure to read the manual and understand how to use your system before you rely on it. And, of course, keep the monitoring company's phone number handy in case of an emergency.

Keep your home well-lit

In addition to making your home look occupied, a well-lit home is also less likely to be targeted by burglars. Make sure all your outdoor lights are in working order and consider investing in a timer so they automatically turn on and off when you’re away. You can also get creative with lighting by placing solar lights along your walkway or driveway. Not only will this deter burglars, but it’ll also make it easier for you to see when you come home at night.

When it comes to protecting your family, there are many measures you can take – owning a firearm is just one of them. By following the tips above, you can create a safe and secure home for your loved ones. Good luck!