How to Boost the Security of Your Home Without Making It Look Obvious

 

Needless to say, home security is a top priority for many of us, but the last thing we want is for our home to look like a fortress or send off an unwelcoming vibe. Just think about it, bars on windows, towering fences with spikes, motion lights that go off the second a leaf falls to the ground, and blaring security system signs might keep the burglars at bay, but they also make your home feel more like a high-security prison than a cosy abode.

It’s just off-putting, and it might even give you a bad reputation, too. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to boost your home’s security without making it look obvious. Honestly, the goal is to be subtle with it. So, with that said, here are some subtle yet effective strategies that can make your home a safe haven without compromising on aesthetics.

Smart Lighting Solutions

Forget the glaring floodlights that scream, “I’m watching you!” Instead, you’re going to want to look into modern smart lighting systems, which are your best friend when it comes to discreet security. Basically, smart bulbs can be programmed to turn on and off at different times, giving the impression that someone’s always home, even when you’re not. Nowadays, many companies sell these from Philips and even all the way to IKEA. You can even control them remotely via an app, adding an extra layer of convenience and security.

Reinforced Doors and Windows

By all means, it’s a great idea to get security doors for your home; it’s something that you should really look into as well. But it just depends on how you go about it. Invest in high-quality, reinforced doors and windows instead of going for the conspicuous bars on windows. 

For example, that bars on windows thing—well, instead, look into laminated glass (it’s way harder to break), and when it comes to doors, look into ones that have a multi-locking system. These reinforcements are practically invisible but offer significant protection against break-ins.

Discreet Security Cameras

Nowadays, Amazon and every other company sell security cameras, and that’s good, but it’s also an eyesore. So, it’ll help to opt for smaller, less noticeable cameras that blend into the surroundings. For the most part, many modern security cameras are designed to look like everyday objects, such as light fixtures or doorbells, such as The Ring doorbell.

Landscaping for Security

If you really think about it, your garden can be your first line of defence without appearing hostile. For example, you can use thorny bushes and shrubs under windows and around the perimeter of your property. Plants like holly, rose bushes, and pyracantha not only add to the aesthetic appeal of your garden but also make it difficult for intruders to access your home without a few scratches.

Frosted or Privacy Window Film

No one likes their privacy to be invaded, and rather than installing unsightly bars or grills, consider applying frosted or privacy film to your windows. These films obscure the view into your home, making it difficult for potential intruders to see what’s inside. Plus, there’s even stain glass film which makes both your interior and exterior look gorgeous. 

Win $10 PayPal Cash in the Sip Sip Hooray Giveaway Hop!

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The Vantrue S1 Pro – Where Innovation Meets Excellence! #AmazonPrimeDay

Disclosure: Susie's Reviews receives compensation or products from brands in exchange for the posts on this site Our opinions are honest and our own.

The Vantrue S1 Pro 2.7K Front and Rear 5G WiFi Dual Dash Cam is by far one of the best dash cams I've ever had the pleasure of using. This camera system has been reliable, providing clear and usable front and rear videos. I hardwired it into my car, and it has offered excellent documentation of near-accidents, which would have been invaluable in the event of an actual accident. The S1 has proven to be a very good value.

Unveil Elegance and Security with S1 Pro's Hidden Design!

The S1 Pro's hidden design ensures a discreet presence that doesn't compromise your driving visibility. With its hidden placement, the S1 Pro remains out of sight, reducing the risk of theft and unwanted attention.

Features:

• 2.7K + 1080P Front and Rear
• 4G / 5G sim card Supported
• Sony STARVIS 2 Sensors
• Dual Wide-Angle Lenses
• Dual HDR Support
• 24-Hour Parking Mode (Additional Hardware kit to use this function sold separately)
• Support up to 512GB microSD card
• Reliable Witness for Accident
• Easy to Install

Specs:

• Resolution:Front+Rear:1944P+1080P/30FPS
• Viewing Angle: 160° +160°
• Sensor: Sony Starvis2 IMX675 CMOS Sensor
• Display:2” IPS LCD
• GPS Built In: Track Route, location and speed
• USB Port:USB Type C
• External Capacity: Support up to 512GB microSD card
• Parking Modes(Optional):Motion detection when parked
• Power System: Supercapacitor

Amazon Prime Day is July 15-16th!

Purchase the S1Pro on Amazon  (Price is reduced from $309.99 to $219.99)

How To Find And Adopt A Dog That Matches Your Vibe

A dog’s temperament is just as unique as your own. They have their own likes and dislikes, their own habits and quirks, and they can fall into bad moods and become depressed if their needs aren’t met. That’s why it’s essential to find a dog that you not only want to adopt, but feel able to properly care for as well.

Research Breeds

If you want to bring home a dog that matches your vibe, always start with the breed. Dogs have been bred over the centuries to have certain traits, both mental and physical, and knowing the basics of these will guide your decision. 

If you want a dog that’s easy to train and who can come on early morning runs, adopting from a litter of German Shepherd Puppies could be best for you. On the other hand, if you want a dog who loves lying on the couch with you but is otherwise quite independent, an American Bulldog might be the breed you’re after. 

Simply put, take a look through both physical and mental traits of each breed and see if they match up with what you want. 

Don’t Lie to Yourself About Your Own Habits

A lot of would-be dog owners think they’ll be able to change their lifestyle or routine in order to make it better for a dog. In some cases this does happen, but most people already have set, established routines that a dog needs to fit into, and not the other way round. 

As such, make sure you don’t lie to yourself about your habits or how hard they’re going to be to break. For example, if you don’t follow an active fitness routine right now, getting a dog who needs a lot of exercise probably won’t work for you! 

Spend Time with a Dog Before You Make a Decision

Even with the research above, you can sometimes bring home a dog that doesn’t quite fit in. That’s why you need to spend time with the dog you’re interested in before formally adopting them. 

If you’re buying from a breeder, make sure you see the dog in question, meet their parents, and get a look at their usual behavior. If you’re adopting from a shelter, go to meet the dogs to see which ones respond to you. 

In both these situations, the people looking after the dogs should be open to your request and actively encourage it. 

If a dog doesn’t match your vibe, you may not be able to take care of them properly. It’s a hard thing to face, but it’s important to keep in mind if you want to be a responsible dog owner. 

National Geographic Shark Fest Book Bundle Giveaway! #SharkFest

Disclosure: Susie's Reviews receives compensation or products from brands in exchange for the posts on this site Our opinions are honest and our own.

These engaging books are the perfect way to nurture your child’s curiosity and transform them into a junior shark expert.

National Geographic Kids Shark Fest books cater to this fascination by:

• Bringing sharks to life with colorful illustrations and captivating photographs.
• Sharing exciting shark stories that spark adventure and wonder.
• Unveiling the science behind sharks in a way that’s easy for kids to understand.
• These books won’t just entertain – they’ll ignite a passion for learning and inspire kids to explore the marvels of the ocean.

1,000 Facts About Sharks

Discover 1,000 sensational facts about these fierce and fascinating predators, from great whites to whale sharks, reef sharks, goblin sharks, and more! Each page of this book is brimming with bite-sized facts, incredible shark stats, and unbelievable photos of sharks in the wild. Inside, you’ll glimpse fossils of prehistoric sharks, learn exactly how many pointy teeth are in this apex predator’s mouth, and meet awesome shark relatives, like stingrays. With a fun-fact format that makes learning feel like a breeze, and expert-vetted, up-to-date shark info—plus backmatter about shark anatomy, genealogy, and more—this book is your go-to reference for shark enthusiasts young and old. 

5-Minute Shark Stories 

Dive into amazing true tales about baby sharks, surprising shark friendships, daring shark rescues, swimming with sharks, and more about these fierce and fascinating fish. 

These 12 fin-tastic true tales about sharks are all the ideal length to be read aloud in five minutes, making them perfect for bedtime, story time, or any time. Illustrated with colorful photographs of one of the planet’s top predators, these awe-inspiring true stories are perfect for a jaw-some reading adventure. Shark-crazy kids and other animal lovers will want to dip into this collection of true stories again and again!

The Ultimate Book of Sharks 

Get up close to learn the truth behind these fantastic, ferocious fish with famed National Geographic photographer and explorer Brian Skerry. Join this amazing underwater adventure to track the sharks of the world, from the teeniest dogfish to the ever-feared great white. This ultimate book features every species of shark on the planet, with awesome photos, fascinating facts, the latest science, and firsthand stories of real-life encounters with these incredible creatures. Learn how sharks live, how they eat, the challenges they face, and whether or not you are actually on the menu. 

Weird But True Sharks

From bizarre creatures in the ocean today to gigantic prehistoric sharks and even some pop culture shark weirdness, this portable, browsable, supercool book is full of incredible facts, amazing photos, and fun illustrations about everything sharks. It’s the perfect book for shark superfans, trivia buffs, reluctant readers, and animal-loving kids of all kinds.

Sharks Sticker Activity Book 

Rule the ocean in this shark-tastic sticker and activity book from National Geographic Kids! This super engaging activity book is packed with mazes, spelling and pattern games, drawing activities, shark facts, and more. Shark-crazy kids are sure to love these pages loaded with fun, learning as they go!

National Geographic Kids Giveaway

Prize: Shark Fest Prize Package: 1,000 Facts About Sharks, 5-Minute Shark Stories, The Ultimate Book of Sharks, Weird But True Sharks and Sharks Sticker Activity Book (arv $65)

1 Winner, US 18+ Giveaway ends 7/31.

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Paving The Way To A Seamless Customer Checkout Experience

Customers desire seamless checkout experiences. If things go wrong or the checkout is slow, it can prevent people from completing their purchases. When customers fail to complete their purchases, they might go elsewhere, resulting in a loss of sales. 

No business wants to suffer from losing customers due to a poor checkout process. It can be easy to improve the experience and create a seamless system that easily enables customers to checkout. When you achieve a seamless checkout experience, you will always retain customers due to the final stage of a purchase. 

Read on for tips to help you pave the way to a seamless customer checkout experience. 

Expert merchant services

Lacking a professional checkout experience will impact your sales. With expert services, you can turn your checkout around in an instant. Your business requires professional merchant services to provide seamless online and in-store payment processes.

By utilizing merchant services from North.com, you can tap into the most reliable and efficient payment systems, instilling confidence in your customers and enhancing their checkout experience. 

Offer a guest checkout option online

If you run an online checkout system for customers, offering a guest checkout option will benefit you. 

Some guests do not wish to provide personal details or have time to create an account. You can follow up with a guest checkout purchase and offer them the chance to do so when they have time, but it is good to offer the option from the start.

A guest checkout option allows customers to use only their email address and payment details. They won’t need to fill out a profile or create a password, which is ideal for customers in a hurry. Thanks to a seamless and quick checkout system, you won't lose customers.

Accept multiple payment methods

To manage your business like a pro and make customers happy when they checkout online or in-store, accept multiple payment methods. Offering multiple ways to pay will make your customer's lives easier. 

If in-store customers want to pay cash, let them. If online customers prefer credit cards over debit cards, let them. 

It is also common to offer buy now, pay later services, which you can find using third-party providers. These various payment methods will satisfy customers and guarantee you won’t lose them over insufficient payment options.

Install encryption tools on your website

Online customers want to feel safe. When they use their payment details online, they don’t want to worry that their private information can be leaked. 

Using security encryption tools like SSL and TLS will keep customers safe. One in five customers terminates their online purchase because they feel unsafe during the payment process. Therefore, don’t add your encryption tools too late so that you can retain as many customers as possible. 

As soon as customers see that you use encryption tools, they will feel confident that they will remain safe during checkout and when providing their payment details. 

Offer complete transparency

Every business needs to offer customers complete transparency, especially for payment issues. 

Let customers know if your website or store payment processes are experiencing difficulties. If a customer attempts to checkout and experiences difficulties without knowing, you might lose them or deal with negative feedback. 

Highlight the issue on your website or let in-store customers know. You can advise them when to return and offer an incentive as an apology. 

Display delivery fees before checkout

Running an online store often involves customer delivery fees. While offering free delivery for all orders would be nice, it often isn’t feasible for businesses. 

Should your business orders involve delivery fees, let the customer know before they head to the checkout page. You can display this information at the top of the website or close to the checkout tab. Then, customers won’t be disappointed when they want to complete their purchase. 

Make it as simple as possible

Every business should create a simple checkout process for its customers. No customers want to spend five minutes of their valuable time trying to locate checkout or filling out endless forms. 

A simple checkout process will encourage customers to return and not fear the lengthy, complex experience. A confusing checkout can make customers feel unsafe and encourage them to terminate their order.

Make it easy for mobile users

Online shopping is on the rise, and more mobile users exist. Shopping on your mobile is too easy but advantageous for businesses. 

You will want to smooth the mobile checkout experience, so create a mobile-friendly website for a seamless process.

Enter to #Win a $10 Amazon GC In The Sparkle Time Giveaway Hop!

 

Welcome to the the Sparkle Time Giveaway Hop hosted by Mama The Fox. This event runs 7/1/24 to 7/15/24.  Enter below to win a $10 Amazon GC.  Giveaway is open to US/CA  Be sure to visit all the blogs in the hop for even more chances to win. Good Luck! 

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MamatheFox and all participating blogs are not held responsible for sponsors who fail to fulfill their prize obligations.