Securing Your Home at Night: The 9 PM Routine

Your home is a sanctuary, especially during the nighttime hours. Now that it is getting dark earlier, it’s important to implement a routine to keep your home safe. With the 9 PM routine, you can take proactive steps to enhance the security of your home and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. Let’s dive into the details and explore how you can keep your home safe and sound after the sun goes down.

Understanding the 9 PM Routine

The 9 PM routine is a simple yet effective set of actions that can significantly reduce the risk of nighttime security breaches. By incorporating this routine into your daily life, you’ll fortify your home and create a secure environment for yourself and your loved ones.

Secure your Cars

Make sure you remove your valuables from your car, and lock any cars that are stored outside. An unlocked car is an easy target for would-be thieves.

Lock All Entry Points

The first step of the 9 PM routine is to lock all entry points to your home. This includes doors, windows, and any other access points. Ensure that all locks are in working order and secure. This simple action can deter potential intruders and keep your home safe.

Close Garage Door

Even though my garage door opener is over 20 years old, the My Q Wireless Garage Sensor works great with the opener, and allows me to open and close the garage door from my phone. I set the app to automatically close the garage door at 9pm if it happens to be open.

Turn on Exterior Lights

Proper lighting is a powerful deterrent. Install motion-activated or automatic lights around the perimeter of your home and make sure they are functioning correctly. These lights will illuminate any suspicious activity, making it less likely for intruders to approach.

We use the GE Dusk to Dawn LED Exterior Lightbulbs in front of our home and these are great because you can just turn them on and leave them, and they will turn on/off automatically as long as you leave the light switch on.

Here are some additional tips to secure your home:

Install a Security System

A modern security system can provide real-time monitoring and alerts. It’s an excellent investment for safeguarding your home. Many systems can be controlled remotely through your smartphone, allowing you to check on your home’s status even when you’re away.

We have both the Ring Doorbell and a Ring Solar Powered Camera that allow us to view the front and rear of my home from a smart phone at any time. You will need a Ring subscription to save and share video from the cameras.

Create the Illusion of Presence

When you’re not at home, it’s essential to make it seem like someone is. Use timers to turn on and off lights and electronic devices, creating the illusion of an occupied home. This can deter potential intruders who may be watching for signs of an empty house.

Communicate with Neighbors

A strong community is a valuable asset in home security. Get to know your neighbors and establish open lines of communication. Inform them of your travel plans so they can keep an eye on your property when you’re away, creating a sense of security for everyone in the neighborhood.

Plan an Escape Route

In the unlikely event of an emergency, it’s essential to have an escape plan in place for you and your family. Discuss and practice the plan, ensuring everyone knows how to exit the home safely.

Conclusion

Securing your home at night through the 9 PM routine is a simple yet effective way to enhance your safety and peace of mind. By following these steps, you’ll create a secure environment that deters potential intruders and allows you to rest easy knowing that your home is protected. Prioritize your safety and that of your loved ones by implementing these measures today. Remember, a secure home is a happy home.