Your home is the place you go to relax and recharge. But coming home to signs of a break-in can make that sense of peace vanish. Regain that sense of security with the right systems and tips that can help reduce the risk of an unauthorized intrusion into your home. Here’s what many homeowners overlook when it comes to securing their property.
Dogs Aren’t Security Systems
Having a noisy family pet can be a great early warning that someone is on your property, but it’s no substitute for an alarm system. Alarms not only alert to intrusion, but also send notifications to local first responders. With the right alarm system, you get instant connection to police, firefighters and paramedics, as needed.
Since burglaries aren’t the only threat to your home security, it’s a good idea to have fast access to any assistance you might need.
Pro tip: Burglaries are down considerably, with only 813,353 reported in 2023, a more than 53% reduction over the last decade. However, you still need fast access to emergency services. Make sure your alarm system is multi-purpose for the best protection.
A Little Light Goes a Long Way
The best cameras in the world work a lot better when recording in a well-lit area. Don’t depend on streetlights to keep your home illuminated. When installing cameras around your perimeter, also put in good lighting. Motion-activated lights can act as a deterrent for burglars and local wildlife, helping protect your home from all types of intrusions.
Pro tip: Studies show that bright lighting after dark can reduce crime by as much as 60%, so putting in some spotlighting to highlight vulnerable areas of your home is well worth the investment.
The Best Locks are the Ones You Use
Having the highest-rated deadbolts and most advanced window-locking technology doesn’t do a lot for your home security if you don’t use them. An open door or window is an invitation to thieves. Remember that most home break-ins are crimes of opportunity. An open window or unlocked door gives an intruder time to enter your home, grab some easily transported valuables, and make a run for it, even if you’re home when it happens. Always lock your doors and windows, and don’t leave your car keys easily accessible.
Pro tip: Avoid placing a spare key outside and make sure your alarm system includes sensors for open doors and windows. An alert about an unlocked door or window opening can help you control your risk factors.
Be Careful With Camera Installation
Security cameras are a great addition to your perimeter and interior security, but they can also open the door to a lot of legal headaches. It’s a good idea to consult with a professional about camera placement to avoid lawsuits in the future. Ensure your cameras don’t capture areas where neighbors expect privacy, and you’ll need to place prominent notifications if you’re installing interior cameras.
Since theft isn’t limited to strangers and can happen when inviting someone in, interior security is a solid choice, but it also comes with legal risks.
Pro tip: Minimize monitoring in bedrooms, avoid placing cameras in bathrooms, and make sure everyone in your home knows they’re under surveillance. If you do, you’ll have a clear record of all activity in and around your home, so you can always check the footage if something happens.
Digital Security is Equally as Important as Physical Security
Integrating security systems and smart home tech can be a great way to make your home more impregnable, but only if your digital locks are as secure as your physical ones. Always keep your firmware updated and take a few minutes to change the default passwords on your home systems. It’s practically rolling out the red carpet for any tech-savvy intruder if you don’t.
Pro tip: Consumer Reports found that some of the most common DIY systems are vulnerable to a simple jamming attack, so you might want to consider switching to a more robust system or consult a security expert for more resilient options.
Secure Your Social Media
Remember that most burglaries are targets of opportunity? If you’re planning a big vacation, it’s tempting to gush about it on your social media, but that can tip off criminals—or just overly curious teens. Sure, Trish from work is trustworthy, but what about everyone on her social media pages? Posting about vacations and major purchases is a great way to advertise to criminals what you have and when they should do their shopping.
Pro tip: Make sure you know everyone on your social media pages personally and avoid mentioning when your home is likely to be unoccupied for extended periods.
Layered Security is Smart Security
Protecting your home isn’t about relying on just one solution—it’s about building multiple layers of defense that work together. From physical deterrents like locks and lighting to smart tech and responsible social media use, each step you take makes it harder for an intruder to gain access. While no system is foolproof, the more barriers you put between your home and potential threats, the safer you and your loved ones will be.
Stay vigilant, stay updated, and make sure your home security strategy evolves along with modern risks. Work with a local security company to identify and close gaps in your home’s security.
You might also be interested in: 5 Questions to Ask Before Signing a Security Services Contract
