08/18/2021 / By Zoey Sky
Making sure your homestead is protected from both natural disasters and crime is key to ensuring your safety when SHTF.
There are many ways to protect your home, and some tried-and-true methods include using sturdy fences and having good communication with your neighbors. (h/t to PreppersWill.com)
Homesteads are often located in rural areas that evoke an image of a peaceful, quiet scenery. However, crime still exists in rural areas, albeit at a lower rate compared to the city.
Always follow the basic tips for securing your home and don’t be complacent just because your homestead is located in a rural area. Unlike movies where homeowners can leave doors unlocked or “hide” keys in accessible areas, in real life, you need to be just as vigilant in the countryside.
Follow the tips below to secure all entrances in your property:
You should also invest in a home security system, some of which are affordable, easy to install and come with reasonable monitoring costs. However, an alarm system is only effective if you use them consistently and properly, like door and window locks.
With technology like remote access, Wi-Fi-accessible doorbells, or CCTV digital recording systems, you have a verifiable, documentable deterrent that should be part of your home defense plans.
You can also secure your property by installing man-made barriers or using natural barriers like plants.
Install strategic gates and fencing or other barriers like ditches on your property. You can also plant a thick stand of trees or place foliage strategically around your home to restrict access.
Try the suggestions below if you want to fortify your property using natural barriers:
Use man-made barriers like fences, gates, or a wall to clearly mark the boundaries of your property.
It’s easier to protect your community if you know you can rely on your neighbors.
If you’re going on a long out-of-town trip, notify local law enforcement or neighbors you trust. Letting local law enforcement that you’ll be gone for a while will also help increase awareness.
Before you go on vacation, provide a list of “keyholders” to your residence and phone numbers so law enforcement can access your property if SHTF. Incidents like house alarm-system activation or suspicious activity calls, whether real or false, can be resolved more easily if first responders have accurate homeowner information and contact phone numbers.
Use large, reflective signage with your house number near main roads so first responders in rural areas can easily identify address signage.
Other aspects of prepping, like situational awareness and the use of firearms for self-defense, can help improve your home security.
Instead of wasting time on social media, use your common sense and pay attention to changes or discrepancies in your environment. If you’re outside buying groceries, focus on your surroundings not on your smartphones
Learn how to use a firearm so you can protect your property and yourself if forced to confront a trespasser. Keep your weapon within easy reach and secured in a lockbox or safe under your bed or in the nightstand.
If you are going to use a firearm to improve your home security, learn more about state and local laws about possession, concealed carry and lawful use of force. You should also learn how to use your chosen weapon well and responsibly to avoid any accidents.
The best way to protect your home and your loved ones is to follow simple rules: Lock your doors and windows, secure your perimeter using man-made or natural barriers and stay alert.
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Tagged Under: communication, crime, crime prevention, fences, fortifications, Home Defense, Home invasion, home security, Homestead, off grid, preparedness, prepper, prepping, self-defense, SHTF, survival, Survival Tips
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