Are you doing enough to keep your home and loved ones safe? With about one million burglaries in the U.S. every year1, it’s key to act now to stop intruders and boost your home’s security. Homes without security systems are more likely to be hit by burglars1. So, let’s look at the top 5 home security upgrades to keep your property safe and give you peace of mind.
Key Takeaways
- Front doors and first-floor windows are the most common entry points for burglars1
- Security systems and smart home upgrades can deter thieves and provide valuable evidence1
- Well-lit properties and neighborhood watch programs can effectively reduce crime rates1
- Reinforcing doors and windows and securing the garage are essential for a comprehensive home defense strategy2
- Investing in a home security system can lead to potential homeowner’s insurance discounts1
Install a Home Security System
Keeping your home and loved ones safe is crucial. A good home security system can help keep burglars away and make your home safer3. These systems can cost a few hundred dollars up to $1,000 or more, based on the size and technology3. Basic systems start at $150 to $300, letting you add more devices later3.
Types of Home Security Systems
There are two main types of home security systems: monitored and unmonitored4. Monitored systems are usually more secure because they have professional help ready to respond to emergencies4. DIY systems with professional monitoring are cheaper over time and give you more control over your equipment4.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a System
Think about these things when picking a home security system:
- DIY vs. professional installation
- Customer service and brand reputation
- Smart home capabilities
- Upfront and monthly costs
- Additional features like smoke and carbon monoxide monitoring
4 Many devices work with smart hubs like Alexa and Google Home, and you can monitor them on your phone3. Some cool features like facial recognition and glass break sensors might not be available from all brands, so check your options3.
5 This shows the detailed research and tests done to find the best DIY security systems. It covers important features, how long they take to install, monitoring options, and ratings to help homeowners pick the right system for their homes5.
“A security system typically can remain unused for up to 10 years but be essential when an emergency arises.”
By looking at your needs and the options out there, you can find a home security system that gives your family the protection and peace of mind they deserve.
Secure Doors and Windows
Keeping your home’s entry points safe is key to stopping burglars and keeping your stuff safe. Doors should be at least 1 ¾ inches thick to stop a break-in6. Deadbolt locks are the best choice for these doors6. To make doors even safer, swap out ¾ inch screws for longer ones, at least 2 ½ inches long, for the door strike plates6.
Reinforcing Exterior Doors
Windows can be tricky to secure, as a burglar just needs to break the glass and get inside. Using key locks on windows helps a lot, especially for ground-level ones6. For double-hung windows, tie the top and bottom frames together with a nail for more security6. Adding security bars over basement windows also stops break-ins through this weak spot6.
Window Security Solutions
Make windows stronger with laminated or tempered glass, a second layer, and keep door locks out of reach6. Using impact-resistant acrylic, polycarbonate, or high-security glass makes windows harder to break6. Sliding patio doors can be opened easily, so lock them up by adding a metal bar or an anti-lift lock6.
Always lock doors and windows, use alarm systems, and secure all entryways to keep your home safe6. Strengthening your doors and windows can keep burglars away and protect your property. For more tips, check out this guide on easy ways to secure your home.
Outdoor Lighting and Landscaping
Outdoor lighting and landscaping are key to making your home safer. Using motion lights and planning your yard can stop intruders. This makes your home a tough target.
Motion-Activated Lighting
Some think motion sensors don’t work well for security lights anymore7. But, lights that are on all the time can keep trespassers away7. Adding lights around your property makes it harder for intruders to hide7.
It’s important to light up areas like the garage and side doors well7. Lights on from dusk to dawn keep your property safe all night7.
A study in New York found outdoor lights cut crime by 39% in 20188. Bright lights can scare off trespassers and vandals, making your home safer even when you’re out8. Lights at your entrance can stop intruders from coming in8.
Gate lights make it clear your entrance is secure8. A well-lit driveway looks good and keeps intruders away8. Security lights also make sure cameras capture everything8.
Strategic Landscaping for Security
Don’t let trees and bushes hide burglars. Trim them to keep your home safe. Choose small plants instead. Remove items that could help intruders get to your home.
Outdoor lights make your home much safer9. They make it less likely for burglars to try to break in9. You can control your lights with your phone9.
Some lights turn on when they sense motion, saving energy9. Floodlights cover big areas well9. There are many types of lights for different needs9.
Lumens measure how bright lights are9. Kelvin measures the light’s color, which affects how it looks and works9. Place lights right to avoid shadows9.
Look for lights that can stand up to the weather9. LED and solar lights save energy and money9.
Now, you can control lights with your phone or voice9. Timers and sensors help with lighting9. Mixing different lights improves security and looks9. The color of your lights can make your yard feel warm or cool9.
Follow local rules when setting up lights9. Keep your lights working well by replacing bulbs when needed9. The cost to install lights depends on what you choose978.
Secure the Garage and Home Network
Your home’s garage and wireless network are key to boosting home security. Burglars often target the garage as an easy entry point10. Even if they can’t get into your house, they might go for your garage items. Also, your Wi-Fi network can open doors to your personal and financial info, so it’s vital to keep it safe11.
Garage Door Security Tips
Always lock both your garage’s interior and exterior doors. Think about getting a smart garage door opener for remote control and monitoring10. Hide your garage windows and add extra locks to the doors. Use automation to prevent the garage door from staying open by mistake.
Protecting Your Wi-Fi Network
Keep your wireless router safe by using WPA or WPA2 encryption, changing your network name, and setting up a firewall11. Protect your devices with antivirus and anti-malware software. Make sure your network and online accounts have strong, unique passwords. Think about using a VPN to secure your internet use even more.
| Garage Security Measures | Home Network Security Tips |
|---|---|
|
|
“Securing your garage and home network are crucial steps to protect your property and personal information from potential threats.”
Home Security Improvements
Using the tips in this article can make your home much safer. By adding a comprehensive home security system, securing doors and windows, and using smart lighting, you can protect your home better12. These steps create a strong defense against intruders.
Every 20 seconds, a home is broken into, which means about 4,150 homes each day12. Without security, homes are three times more likely to be targeted, says Temple University12. Just having a security system can stop burglars from choosing your home, as shown by the University of North Carolina12.
Not having basic security can make your home more at risk12. Insurance can help cover losses from a burglary. It’s smart to get extra coverage for things like jewelry or family treasures12.
Visible security can lower the chance of a break-in by 23.8%, the FBI found in 202213. Burglaries went down by 3.8% in 2023, says the Council on Criminal Justice13. Using smart locks, motion sensors, and good lighting can keep burglars away and make your home safer13.
With a good home security plan and integrated security solutions, you can make a safe place for your family and things. Being proactive with security is the best way to stop intruders and protect what matters most.
Use Security Cameras and Video Doorbells
Home security cameras and video doorbells are great for keeping your property safe. They act as a warning to potential intruders and can help prove a crime if it happens. When picking these devices, look for motion detection, night vision, Wi-Fi, and cloud storage to boost your surveillance14.
Key Features of Security Cameras
Security cameras vary in price and what they can do. Basic ones cost about $100, but top models with 4K and more features can be over $20014. Many cameras can tell the difference between people, cars, or pets, giving you more precise alerts14. They can see from 90° to 360°, covering more ground than video doorbells, which usually see 180°14.
Video doorbells are usually cheaper, costing between $40 and $200, averaging $10014. They can spot people and packages but might not have as good video quality or cover as much area as cameras14.
Think about what you need and how much you can spend when choosing a security system. Make sure your cameras or doorbells work with a mobile app for watching live and storing footage. This is very useful if there’s a security issue15.
“Smart doorbells can work as a way to watch and listen, as well as a regular doorbell. They let families check on the front door from anywhere, giving peace of mind.”15
Companies like ADT, SimpliSafe, and Vivint offer top-notch video doorbells and cameras. They have facial recognition, package detection, and designs that can stand up to the weather16. These companies are trusted for their reliable and full-featured security systems, making them great picks for your home’s safety161415.
Install a Safe for Valuables
Keeping your most valuable items safe is a must for every homeowner. Installing a high-quality home safe17 is a great way to protect your treasures. These safes are heavy, over 1,000 pounds, making them hard for burglars to take17.
When picking a safe, think about fire and water resistance, the lock type, and how to anchor it. Fireproof safes can handle high heat for a long time, keeping your valuables safe18. Waterproof safes protect against floods and water damage.
Where you put your safe is key for its security17. Basements are good because they have strong concrete floors. This makes a good base for the safe and stops thieves from opening it17. Wall and floor safes also provide hidden, secure spots for your valuables.
| Safe Type | Features | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Wall Safe | – Highly concealed – Secure storage for smaller items |
– Accessible location – Weight capacity of the wall |
| Floor Safe | – Embedded in concrete – Excellent protection against theft |
– Accessibility – Compatibility with floor type |
| Freestanding Safe | – Versatile sizes and security levels – Can be bolted to the floor |
– Adequate floor space – Anchoring options |
Choosing the right safe is important for its success17. You’ll need tools like a socket set, drill, and screwdrivers for installation. Make sure the safe is bolted down to stop thieves17. Installing a quality safe means your valuables are well-protected.
“Homes with security safes are three times less likely to be targeted by burglars compared to homes without safes.”18
Utilize Smart Home Automation
Smart home technology has changed how we think about home security19. More homeowners are now using home automation to boost their property’s safety. These systems let homeowners control and check their home’s security from anywhere19.
Home Automation for Security
Smart home automation brings many security perks. Homeowners can manage and watch over parts of their home like door locks, security cameras, and lights from their phone or tablet19. This lets them act fast if there’s a threat, scaring off intruders and giving them peace of mind19.
Also, smart home tech works with virtual assistants, letting users control their home’s security with just their voice19. This makes security easier and more convenient19.
But, some homeowners worry about the safety of their smart devices, with 72% concerned about their data19. Still, the industry is working on this, with the Matter standard aiming to make smart devices more secure and work better together19.
The smart home tech market is always getting better, offering more security features, a better user experience, and cheaper ways to add smart home automation to your home20. By using these new technologies, homeowners can make their homes safer and have more control over their security1920.
Neighborhood Watch and Community Involvement
Community involvement is crucial for neighborhood security. Knowing your neighbors and joining a neighborhood watch can make your home and area safer21. These programs can cut crime by 5 to 15 percent through marking property and inspections21.
Neighborhood Watch Programs stop crime and build community spirit21. Places with more youth activities through these programs see less crime. Talking more with neighbors can also make life better in neighborhoods21. Working with police makes these programs even more effective21.
But, a Neighborhood Watch’s success depends on its volunteers’ training21. Without good training, patrols can fail and crimes might not be stopped. Training with police helps volunteers help keep the community safe21. It’s key to keep training and working with authorities to make these programs work well21.
| Neighborhood Watch Program Statistics | Value |
|---|---|
| Reduction in crime rates | 5-15% |
| Participation in neighborhoods with a program | 38% |
| Typical location of Neighborhood Watches | Single-family homes, lack of commercial establishments, long-term residents |
| Average cost of a burglary | Nearly $3,000 |
| Percentage of burglaries that are residential | Over 50% |
Neighborhood Watch Programs are key to a safer community. They work with local police to lower crime and build a closer community212223.
“Being diligent in reporting suspicious activities can make a significant difference in crime prevention.”
Mark and Catalog Valuables
Keeping your valuables safe from theft is key to protecting your property and personal items. Marking and cataloging your valuables is a smart move. This way, you boost the chances of getting back your items if they’re stolen and it might stop thieves from picking your home24.
Think about using an ultraviolet (UV) pen to mark your valuables with an invisible sign. This makes proving you own the item easier if it’s found, since the mark glows under UV light24. Also, having a detailed list of your stuff, with photos and serial numbers, helps a lot when you need to report to the police or file insurance claims24.
To keep your home safe, watch what you throw away. Don’t leave boxes of big appliances or valuable items in your recycling bin. This keeps your home’s contents private and less tempting to burglars25.
Marking and listing your items is just part of the story. You can also register your stuff with free services like Immobilise or BikeRegister to help get them back if they’re stolen24. These steps can really lower the risk of thieves targeting your valuables and increase the odds of getting them back.
| Marking Technique | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Ultraviolet (UV) Pen | Leaves an invisible mark that proves ownership under UV light24 |
| Microdots | Unique codes and contact information for identification24 |
| Synthetic DNA | Uniquely registered to an individual address24 |
| RFID Chips | Protect assets and set off alarms if not deactivated24 |
“Items with visible marking are 50% less likely to be stolen, and property marking serves as a deterrent to thieves. Microdot, DNA, and chemical marking are virtually impossible to remove.”
Adding these simple steps to your home security plan helps you protect your property identification, document your valuables, and prevent theft. This gives you peace of mind and keeps your most precious items safe.
Conclusion
Creating a strong home security plan can greatly improve your property’s safety. This article has shown how to use security solutions like smart home tech and reliable security systems. These steps form a strong defense against intruders26.
Securing doors and windows with better locks and reinforcements can stop burglars in their tracks27. Adding motion lights and smart landscaping can also make your home less inviting to criminals27.
Protecting your garage, network, and valuables with cameras and video doorbells makes a full security solution. This approach not only keeps burglars away but also gives you peace of mind. You’ll know your home is safe, even when you’re not there2627.
FAQ
What are the top home security improvements to protect my property?
What factors should I consider when choosing a home security system?
How can I secure my doors and windows?
How can outdoor lighting and landscaping improve my home’s security?
How can I secure my garage and home network?
What are the key features to look for in home security cameras and video doorbells?
Why should I install a safe for my valuables?
How can home automation improve my home’s security?
How can neighborhood involvement and community collaboration improve my home’s security?
How can I mark and catalog my valuables to prevent theft?
Source Links
- Top 10 Home Security Tips For All Homeowners – https://www.gvlock.com/blog/new-house-security/
- 10 Ways to Upgrade Your Home Security – https://www.thesecuredad.com/post/10-ways-to-upgrade-your-home-security
- Best Home Security Systems of 2024 – https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-home-security-system/
- The Best Home Security System – https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/the-best-home-security-system/
- Best DIY Home Security Systems of 2024 – https://www.security.org/home-security-systems/best/diy/
- Securing Doors and Windows – https://www.guideone.com/resources/safety-resource-library/securing-doors-and-windows
- 5 Home Security Lighting Ideas for Your Landscape Lighting – https://utahlights.com/5-home-security-lighting-ideas-for-your-landscape-lighting/
- 5 Ways you can Secure Your Home With Outdoor Lighting – https://www.mid-southnightlights.com/blog/5-ways-secure-your-home-with-outdoor-lighting
- Outdoor Lighting: Enhancing Security and Visibility Around the Home – StaySafe.org – https://staysafe.org/outdoor-lighting-enhancing-security-and-visibility-around-the-home/
- Home Security Tips to Make Your Space Safer – Strada Services – https://stradaservices.com/about-us/blog/home-security-tips/
- 8 Easy Ways to Boost Home Security – https://www.homegauge.com/learning/boost-home-security/
- 14 Most Effective Steps to Beef Up Your Home Security – https://metrobuildingandremodeling.com/blog/14-effective-steps-beef-up-home-security
- A Step-by-Step Guide To Improving Your Home’s Security On A Budget – Aqara – https://www.aqara.com/us/blog-us/a-step-by-step-guide-to-improving-your-homes-security-on-a-budget/
- Video Doorbell vs Security Camera, Which Is Better – https://reolink.com/blog/video-doorbell-vs-security-camera-which-is-better/?srsltid=AfmBOoqNz7oW4c8jdW5HgAdFMfl9iZ0AZXiGfWQDENxGJi16nc7fbinK
- Doorbell Security Cameras: 9 Features You Should Keep in Mind Before Purchasing – https://www.adt.com/resources/features-doorbell-camera?srsltid=AfmBOoqQn6kg9mdV77Ttp7OBNdapNHsqdVuCn3-ieXTUAo7mzUY2yhtc
- Best Home Security Systems with Doorbell Cameras in 2024 – https://www.safehome.org/security-systems/best/doorbell-cameras/
- Where to Install a Safe in Your Home – https://guardiansafeandvault.com/blog/where-to-install-a-safe-in-your-home?srsltid=AfmBOorTntiiiuZ8CCMmVyeUeowylDqsiuQD2-sx3UyJsSPvkm74SYlE
- Security Safes: Protecting Valuables And Important Documents – StaySafe.org – https://staysafe.org/home-safety/security-safes-protecting-valuables/
- What is a Smart Home? Everything You Need to Know|Definition from TechTarget – https://www.techtarget.com/iotagenda/definition/smart-home-or-building
- Smart Home: Definition, How They Work, Pros and Cons – https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/smart-home.asp
- What is a Neighborhood Watch Program? | Management Plus – https://www.managementplusrealtyservice.com/blog/what-is-a-neighborhood-watch-program-pros-and-cons/
- About Neighborhood Watch | National Neighborhood Watch – https://nnw.org/about-neighborhood-watch
- 8 Simple Ways to Make Your Neighborhood Safer | SafeWise – https://www.safewise.com/blog/8-simple-ways-make-neighborhood-safer-place/
- The Ultimate Guide to Property Marking – Barry Bros Security – https://www.barrybros.com/2020/12/the-ultimate-guide-to-property-marking/
- 25 Ways to Keep Your Home Secure – https://www.acolerealty.com/blog/how-to-keep-your-home-secure/
- Home Security System Upgrades: Enhancing Your Existing System – StaySafe.org – https://staysafe.org/home-safety/home-security-system-upgrades-enhancing-your-existing-system/
- 5 Compelling Reasons To Upgrade Your Home Security – BUILD Magazine – https://www.build-review.com/5-compelling-reasons-to-upgrade-your-home-security/
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