Keeping your home and neighborhood safe

Summer in Southwest Florida gives us all a chance to catch our breath after season and relax a little.

It’s not a time to let our guard down, though.

More daylight hours mean many Southwest Floridians spend more time outside their homes or out of town on vacation. Unfortunately, criminals know this. Vacant homes and unmonitored neighborhoods are prime targets for thieves. That’s why summer is a critical time to assess and strengthen your home security, as well as that of your neighborhood. Longer daylight hours can create a false sense of safety and present unique risks. Having spent over 30 years in security and high-profile investigations, and now leading a security company, I’ve seen firsthand how complacency can turn into vulnerability. Proactive measures can make all the difference.

According to the Foundation for Community Association Research, nearly 45% of Florida homes are part of homeowners associations – communities where coordinated security efforts can significantly reduce crime. Yet, some HOA boards still overlook the importance of budgeting in these safety measures, thus leaving gaps that can be exploited.

One of the most common and overlooked challenges this time of year is something many of us have done without giving a second thought during our mid-vacation bliss. As soon as we reach our destination, we immediately post photos and videos on social media to share with friends, inadvertently giving criminals a heads-up that our home will be empty.

Vandalism, theft and even worse crimes tend to spike during the summer months. I’ve seen situations where a simple oversight, like locking doors or failing to update security cameras, can turn into a homeowner’s nightmare. The good news? Most issues are preventable with a few strategic steps.

Ways to secure your home and community

Well-lit areas are a proven crime deterrent. Motion-activated lighting in dark corners, parking lots and entry points can discourage intruders and eliminate hiding spots. Proper lighting also reduces accidents and liability for HOA communities.

Today’s modern security cameras are more than just an “eye in the sky.” Look for features like night vision, motion sensors and cloud storage. Active monitoring, especially after hours, is crucial for HOA communities. Live surveillance allows security personnel to respond instantly to suspicious activity.

While cameras and lights are vital, nothing beats a trained security officer patrolling your community. Visible security presence acts as a powerful deterrent and provides immediate response when needed. Especially during peak vacation months, security personnel can patrol common areas, monitor entrances and handle incidents swiftly, giving residents peace of mind.

However, security isn’t just about equipment. It’s also about cultivating a mindset of awareness and community. Educate neighbors on best security practices, report suspicious activity and adopt a sense of collective responsibility. Regularly review your security systems to adjust to any evolving threats or local crime trends.

Safeguarding your home and community is a continuous commitment. My company works with HOA boards and residents to assess existing security measures, identify vulnerabilities and implement a customized system that works. Our team of trained officers provides around-the-clock protection so communities remain safe havens for families while maintaining property values.

Summer should be a time of relaxation, not worry. By taking proactive steps now, you can protect what matters most: your home, your family and your community. Remember, security isn’t just an expense... it’s an investment in your peace of mind.

About the Author

Scott Pace is the owner and founder of Ballast Security, which specializes in comprehensive security solutions for residential, commercial and industrial clients. Ballast Security's mission is to proactively safeguard communities and assets through vigilant crime prevention strategies, advanced security solutions, and unwavering dedication to safety, ensuring peace of mind and protection for all. Visit BallastSC.com for more information.