Though having a suburban house with a white picket fence is the dream of many, others opt for a more unusual living situation: living aboard a houseboat. If you’ve always dreamed of the freedom of the open water and the salty air, maybe a houseboat is your ideal abode. If you are lucky enough to own a houseboat, you’re probably eager to protect your investment. Although living on a houseboat offers its own unique set of security advantages, it also presents its own series of challenges.

Many docks and marinas have controlled access gates, which provide a great first line of defense against would-be thieves. However, those gates really only protect you from some people – and they definitely don’t protect you from anyone who can swim. Though you might feel relatively safe with your houseboat docked at the marina, it is important to take the necessary security cautions on the boat itself – regardless of how secure the dock may be.

Like any traditional home, houseboats can be installed with a variety of alarm and security systems. There are manufacturers that specialize in house-boat alarm systems, though this may not be necessary to protect your floating home. Houseboat alarms include door and window sensors, as well as fire, smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors. Some can even notify you by cell phone if any of your alarms are triggered.

Some security devices – like cameras – can be used regardless of location. Wireless cameras are a great option for those who would like to monitor their houseboat while they are away – many of the latest cameras allow you to view a live camera feed from any internet connection. Many cameras currently on the market feature HD digital video, night vision and sound. As an added bonus, many of these cameras are small enough be hidden in alarm clocks and picture frames.

Don’t overlook your doors and windows, which are the most important security points both on houseboats and traditional homes. Even if you’re on the water, these can be fitted with high-quality locks and sensors to prevent intruders from gaining access to your houseboat. Low-tech solutions include placing stoppers in the tracks of your windows and any sliding doors and increasing lighting and visibility to your floating home. Consider organizing a “neighborhood watch” among your neighboring houseboats to keep an eye on each other’s floating property. Though you may not inhabit a traditional neighborhood, you can still take advantage of this useful method of protecting the community in which you live.

The freedom of living on the water can be invigorating, but it is also a challenge. Living on your boat requires a particular sense of independence. Depending on where you are moored, you may not be able to count on the local police or fire agencies to protect you. Be sure that your boat is installed with fire extinguishers, pepper spray, and similar devices to protect you from any threat that might arise. Even though you’re on the water, there are still plenty of ways for such threats to come aboard.

Author Bio: Resist Attack has a full range of TASER devices to keep you and your family safe. Also check for current specials on hidden cctv

Category: Home Management
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