Skip to content 
You’re about to unlock some essential tips that will boost your home security and keep those pesky burglars at bay. The upcoming guide will walk you through cutting-edge front door security, smart home monitoring systems, and effective window reinforcements. Imagine having the peace of mind that comes with knowing your valuables are safe and secure, even when you’re miles away.
We’ll also introduce you to smart practices for safeguarding specific items and highlight vital steps to follow before leaving your home unattended. From high-security locks to motion detectors, each tip is designed to arm your home with the best defenses. Get ready to transform your home into a fortress with these powerful, yet easy-to-implement measures!
Front Door Security
Use high-security locks for the front door.
Your front door is the first line of defense against intruders, so it’s crucial to fortify it with high-security locks. Traditional locks can be easily picked or broken, providing little resistance to a determined burglar. However, high-security locks are designed to withstand various tampering techniques. These locks are often made from stronger materials and have more complex keyways, making them much more difficult to defeat. When selecting a high-security lock, ensure it meets industry standards for security. Additionally, consider innovative options like smart locks, which offer the convenience of keyless entry and can alert you to any unauthorized attempts to tamper with the lock.
Reinforce the door frame with a better strike plate to prevent kick-ins.
Even the sturdiest locks won’t provide adequate protection if the door frame is weak. Reinforce your door frame with a quality strike plate to prevent kick-ins. A strike plate is a metal plate attached to the door jamb that the lock bolt extends into. Standard strike plates are often weak and can be easily broken. Upgrading to a heavy-duty strike plate with longer screws can significantly enhance the door’s resistance to force. These screws should penetrate deeply into the wall stud to provide a solid anchor. This small improvement can make a big difference in defending your home against forced entry.
Home Monitoring
Employ monitoring systems like CCTV and stick-up cams to receive live feeds on your smartphone.
Installing a home monitoring system is an effective way to keep tabs on your property in real-time. Modern CCTV systems link seamlessly with your smartphone, allowing you to monitor live feeds from anywhere. Stick-up cams offer the flexibility of wireless installation and can be strategically placed to cover vulnerable areas, such as the front door, backdoor, and garage. These systems often come with motion detection features, sending alerts directly to your phone when they detect unusual activity, thereby increasing your home’s security.
Utilize the Ring Video Doorbell for front door monitoring with no monthly fees.
The Ring Video Doorbell is a versatile device that enhances front door security while providing convenient video monitoring. Installation is straightforward, and once set up, the doorbell will alert you to any activity at your front door. Not only does it function as a doorbell, but it also serves as a camera that streams live video directly to your phone, all without monthly fees. The device includes night vision and two-way audio, allowing you to see and communicate with visitors, whether you’re at home or away.
Install Ring Stick Up Cam for backyard monitoring.
To ensure comprehensive coverage, consider installing the Ring Stick Up Cam in the backyard. This wireless cam offers the same benefits as the Ring Video Doorbell but is designed for more versatile placement. Position it to capture wide angles of your yard, enabling you to monitor activities and receive alerts for any suspicious movements. The Stick Up Cam is easy to install and can be moved as needed, making it an adaptable solution for securing your outdoor spaces.
Alarms and Motion Detectors
Use alarms to alert neighbors or authorities of break-ins.
An effective alarm system serves as both a deterrent and a quick-response measure for break-ins. When triggered, alarms emit a loud siren that can scare off intruders and alert neighbors or nearby authorities. Many modern alarm systems are also connected to monitoring services, which can automatically notify emergency services in the event of a break-in. Consider integrating your alarm with your home automation system for added convenience and control.
Employ motion detectors that trigger alerts following unusual movements.
Motion detectors are an essential component of a comprehensive home security system. These devices sense movement within a specified area and can trigger an alert or activate an alarm when unusual activity is detected. Advanced motion detectors can differentiate between human movement and other sources, such as pets or passing cars, reducing the likelihood of false alarms. Place motion detectors in strategic locations, such as entry points and hallways, to maximize their effectiveness.
Window Security
Apply 3M Window Film to windows to make the glass resistant to shattering.
Windows are common points of entry for burglars, but conventional glass can be easily shattered. To enhance security, apply 3M Window Film to your windows. This film adds a layer of protection, making the glass more resistant to breaking. In the event of an attempt to smash the window, the film holds the shards together, delaying entry and potentially deterring the burglar altogether. This security measure also has the added benefit of reducing UV light and glare, improving comfort within your home.
Secure Valuables
Avoid storing valuables in the master bedroom as it’s a common target.
Burglars often head straight to the master bedroom because it’s commonly known to be where valuables are stored. To minimize the risk of theft, avoid keeping precious items in this room. Instead, use less obvious locations or divide your valuables among different areas in your home. This strategic placement complicates any burglary attempt, making it less likely that intruders will find and steal your most valuable items.
Invest in a fire and burglary-proof safe and bolt it to the ground.
To safeguard your most important items, invest in a high-quality safe that’s both fire and burglary-proof. These safes are designed to withstand high temperatures and provide enhanced protection against forced entry. When purchasing a safe, look for one with strong locking mechanisms and adequate storage space for your needs. Once installed, ensure the safe is bolted to the ground. This prevents it from being easily removed from your property. Use the safe to store valuable items such as jewelry, cash, and important documents.
Store valuable documents like passports and birth certificates in the safe.
Important documents, such as passports, birth certificates, and social security cards, should be stored securely in your safe. In addition to protecting these crucial documents from theft, the safe will also safeguard them against fire and other potential disasters. Having all these documents in one secure place can also be convenient for quick access when needed.
Tips for Specific Items
Hide or take expensive medication with you as burglars may target these.
Expensive medications can be a surprising target for burglars, due to their high resale value on the black market. To prevent theft, hide these medications in places that are not easily accessible or recognizable. If you’re leaving your home for an extended period, consider taking your valuable medications with you. This ensures they remain safe and available when you need them.
Prevent identity theft by securing important documents and sensitive information.
Identity theft is a growing concern, and one way burglars can capitalize on a break-in is by stealing personal documents. Always secure documents that contain sensitive information, such as financial statements, tax records, and identification cards, in your safe. Additionally, consider keeping digital copies of these documents in a secure, encrypted cloud service. By limiting access to both physical and digital formats, you reduce the risk of identity theft significantly.
Perimeter Security
Install motion-sensor lighting around your property.
Motion-sensor lighting is a simple yet effective way to enhance your property’s security. These lights automatically turn on when they detect movement, illuminating any potential intruders and deterring them from proceeding further. Install these lights around key areas, such as entry points, pathways, and dark corners of your property. Not only do they help protect your home, but they also provide added safety for you and your family when moving around the property at night.
Use thorny plants or bushes under windows to deter break-ins.
Landscape design can play a role in home security as well. Plant thorny bushes or shrubs beneath windows to create a natural barrier that’s difficult and painful for burglars to navigate. Plants like roses, holly, and barberry are effective choices. They provide an additional layer of protection while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your garden. Keeping these plants well-maintained ensures they continue to serve as a deterrent without obstructing your view.
Garage Security
Secure garage doors with high-quality locks.
Garages are often overlooked when it comes to security, making them a favored target for intruders. Ensure your garage door is secured with a high-quality lock. If your garage door has a manual override for emergencies, use a mechanism that can disable this feature when not in use. For additional security, consider installing a deadbolt lock on entry doors to the garage, preventing unauthorized access from inside and outside.
Employ a monitored alarm system in the garage.
To further enhance garage security, install a monitored alarm system. This system will alert you and the monitoring service if there is an attempted break-in. Some systems also come with integrated motion detectors and cameras, providing a comprehensive security solution. Since garages often store valuable items like vehicles, tools, and sports equipment, investing in a robust alarm system can deter thieves and protect these assets.
Vacation Precautions
Ensure all security measures are in place before going on vacation or leaving the house unattended.
Before leaving for vacation, take the time to review and reinforce all security measures around your home. Test your alarm systems to ensure they’re functioning correctly, and double-check that all windows and doors are securely locked. Setting timers for lights and electronics can make it appear as though someone is home, further deterring potential intruders. Inform your security monitoring service of your absence so they can be extra vigilant.
Ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your property.
Having a trusted neighbor keep an eye on your property can provide peace of mind while you’re away. They can collect your mail, water the plants, and generally make the house look occupied. Additionally, provide them with a spare key and emergency contact information, so they can quickly address any unexpected issues. This communal vigilance adds an extra layer of security on top of your existing measures.
Conclusion
Implementing these security tips will enhance the safety of your home.
By following these comprehensive security tips, you significantly bolster the safety and security of your home. Each measure contributes to a multi-layered defense system designed to deter and prevent break-ins.
Stay vigilant and regularly update your home security measures.
Home security is not a one-time task but an ongoing process. Stay vigilant by regularly reviewing and updating your security measures. As new technologies and strategies emerge, incorporate them into your home security plan to stay ahead of potential threats.
Consult professionals for tailored advice and advanced security systems.
For optimal security, consider consulting with professionals who can offer tailored advice and install advanced security systems. Professional services can provide insights and solutions specific to your home’s layout and potential vulnerabilities, ensuring comprehensive protection for your property.
