For survivalists who want to depend on their home when it comes to prepping, creating a reliably sustainable household is one of the most crucial steps. Grid-down scenarios are an all-too-likely scenario in disaster situations, and relying on electricity for an extensive period of time without a backup plan can be a recipe for disaster.
Given that, it doesn’t take a master survivalist to have a home security system installed; anyone can afford one these days, but the only way that it can be a successful component to your preps is if you concentrate on more than just a flexible and well-covered system; you need to make sure that it is sustainable.
There are plenty of great practices that can tip the odds in your favor when it comes to home security, but when the grid goes down, home security systems can quickly turn into hardly more than a couple of elaborate lawn ornaments and window dressings.
Here are a few simple ways that homeowners can easily make their home’s security more sustainable and effective, no matter what the world outside throws our way:
Keep a backup power supply
Unless EMP interference is an issue, one of the most convenient answers to keeping a security system functioning is an alternative power source. For a longer term solution, using a renewable energy source with your generator can sustain your household for much longer than other options.
Solar power is an increasingly affordable option, and there are even methods for the DIY inclined to create their own. While it may cost a little extra or require a little more elbow grease, a solar powered generator can be an excellent contingency for your security system.
Prioritize your energy usage
While I keep my backup generator separate from my home supply to run my security system, this can be an expensive route. If you must use a limited alternative power supply for other daily uses, it is crucial to prioritize what is necessary to keep your home safe. As for my household, keeping our home security plugged in is second only to communications technology and low-power food refrigeration.
I would strongly advise against wasting energy indoors before keeping your outdoors floodlights or motion lights activated if your resources are limited, since these can be one of the strongest deterring elements of your system when the power goes out at night. Often, criminals will depend on cutting your home’s power supply as a means of exploiting your security. Keeping some lights on can often convince invaders employing this method that your home has a more comprehensive backup supply.
Reinforce your entries
Even when your system is no longer functional, there is some genuine value in the deterrence that the presence of alarms and signage can provide. The value is great enough that many convenience stores and more cost-conscious homeowners use “dummy” equipment simply to keep potential invaders at bay.
No matter if you’re anticipating a grid-down scenario, minor additions and modifications can go a long way in keeping your home safe. In this article, you can learn more about making your home better at deterring criminals and resisting attempted invasion. I would also recommend installing shatter-resistant window films, bump-proof lock models, and fencing of an adequate height.
Have an emergency plan for your household
When no form of power supply is available, having a household protocol to maintain awareness and a secure presence is essential. This can take many forms, but sharing a common emergency plan on alarming your family is necessary. In addition to having a definite exit strategy and time, ample resources to cover other household needs, and so forth, taking time to construct a plan with your family can make the difference between a good prep and inevitable disaster.
I would also recommend sharing an alarm protocol, which can take a variety of forms depending on what you find to be most effective. In our household, I keep a coach whistle handy in case emergency situations arise. Incorporating such an alternative “alarm” system can still be effective in calling for help and keeping your family informed of developing security risks.
These are just a few ideas in making sure that your home’s security can weather a grid-down scenario. What would you recommend when prepping our homes to accommodate for an effective home security system?
Naomi Broderick is a prepper, busy mother of three, and a prolific author writing on Protect Your Home and other websites for ADT security in Lawton, Oklahoma, a leader in home security.
by Naomi Broderick
Source:howtosurviveit.com