When considering a move to a new home, the safety of your family should be at the forefront of your mind. Square footage and adequate numbers of bedrooms and bathrooms are important factors in choosing your new home, but ensuring that your home is well-equipped with safety features will be an essential part of creating new experiences and cherished memories in your new space.

What Safety Feature Should I Look For?

True safety and security for your loved ones start in the home. Doing what you can to set up your new space while keeping this in mind will make your home the haven of comfort that it’s meant to be. Be on the lookout for these safety features that should be a part of every new home.

1. Secure windows and doors

Doors and windows are the primary modes of access for criminals. Should you choose to buy an older home, double-check to make sure windows are functional and that they haven’t been painted shut. Are locks secure, or can they be easily forced open with a tool? Ground floor windows, in particular, should have locking handles, safety bars, and other devices that fortify their function. While a bad window setup shouldn’t be a deal breaker, factor in the cost of some window upgrades in the near future to protect your loved ones.

External doors should lock with a deadbolt no smaller than 1 inch, encased in a steel or reinforced door frame. They should be constructed from solid wood or steel, and if you have glass panes, make sure that you have keyed bolts that prevent people from breaking through and attempting to open from the inside.

2. Adequate lighting

Good lighting isn’t just meant for outside use to enhance landscaping and deter unwelcome traffic. Recent studies have shown that poor lighting inside your new home contributes to falls, which are especially risky for children and the elderly. Consider adding additional sources of both inside and outside lighting, making sure walkways and rooms are adequately lit to prevent injuries.

3. Updated electrical features

Many of us take electricity for granted. Power outlets, wiring, and other electrical components need to be updated and in good condition in order to reduce the likelihood of outages and electrical fires. Make sure your required inspection includes a comprehensive assessment of your electrical system, wall outlets, and fixtures leading into the home to ensure your safety.

4. Carbon monoxide detectors

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is created by burning wood, charcoal, propane, or gasoline. This poisonous gas can be deadly if it’s allowed to build up to toxic levels in your home; having a detector on each level of your home will alert your family in the event of an issue. If your carbon monoxide detectors do go off when you are at home, leave your home as soon as possible and call 911 to have emergency officials identify the source of this toxic leak.

5. Quality air filters

A good 20x20x1 air filter protects the indoor air quality in your home, and you won’t break the bank with this small but significant upgrade. Air particulates and toxins are at an all-time high; we breathe them in daily without knowing the consequences and long-term effects of this toxic overload. Install an air filter in your home’s HVAC system and regularly monitor to make sure you are getting the most out of this simple yet effective technology.

6. Updated security systems

Recent statistics show that 1 in 3 homes without security systems will experience a burglary or violent crime. An updated security system will not only provide you additional safety for you and your loved ones, but peace of mind that your home and property are being monitored by emergency response teams.

Start shopping!

Choosing a new home for you and your family is an exciting time for all. Let your realtor know what safety features you are looking for, and ask for recommendations on innovative products and services that add additional security to a home. With a bit of forethought, planning, and thoughtful discussion around what features you need to remain safe and secure, you’ll soon find the perfect property as you continue making memories, safe and sound.

6 Safety Features to Look for in New Family Homes by Stephanie Snyder