Here are some basic home safety tips everyone should know in India:

• Install quality locks on all doors and windows: Use deadbolts for entry doors and locking mechanisms for windows. Burglary is common, so robust locks prevent unauthorized access.


• Create a secured perimeter: Install a boundary wall or fencing around your entire property. A gated entrance also helps control access. Clear any brush or foliage around the exterior that provides hiding spots.


• Use a guard if possible: Hire a trained security guard to monitor your home, especially at night. A guard, along with a guard dog, deters crime and provides emergency response. If not full-time, see if neighbors will also contribute to hiring shared part-time security.


• Install an alarm system: Place motion detectors, security cameras, and an alarm system with a monitoring service in your home. Alarms trigger if an intrusion occurs, alerting you and emergency responders. Security systems make homes less of a target.


• Practice fire safety: Place multiple fire extinguishers in easy-to-access spots and know how to use them. Develop and practice regular fire evacuation drills with your family in case of emergency. Check that all fire alarms are functioning properly. Fire is one of the highest risks to life and property in India.


• Ensure proper electrical safety: Don't overload circuits or use damaged cords, and install ground fault circuit interrupters where required. Much of India's residential electricity infrastructure is outdated, increasing the risk of short circuits that lead to fire. Take all precautions to prevent unsafe electrical issues.


• Store essential items up high: Keep documents, cash, jewelry, electronics, and other valuables in secure cabinets or locked away on higher floors of your home. This makes them less accessible in the event of flooding, which can devastate ground levels in homes during the monsoon season in many parts of India.


• Restrict keys: Only provide keys to trusted individuals and change locks if keys are lost or stolen. Keys in the wrong hands compromise your security and allow access for theft or harm. Engrave or code keys to prevent duplication by unauthorized parties.


• Educate all residents: Teach family members, including domestic staff and laborers, basic home safety tips and your emergency plan. Everyone who spends time in or maintains your home should understand the risks and prescribed precautions to take for each scenario. Protecting a home requires the effort and vigilance of all individuals with access.


• Stay alert to surroundings: Pay attention to activities in your neighborhood and watch for unfamiliar vehicles or individuals scoping homes or making repeat visits. Report anything suspicious to the authorities immediately. Individual awareness and community vigilance help thwart criminal plans and activities that undermine safety.

Following these useful tips can help safeguard your home and provide more peace of mind regarding risks like intrusion, fire, flood, and electrical issues common in India. Take all practical measures to secure your property, plan for emergencies, and stay alert to your surroundings. Home safety requires effort and consistency but provides significant benefits to you, your household, and potentially even your neighbors. Make it a priority today.