18 Home Security Tips & Tricks for Your Peace of Mind

According to recent FBI data, a burglary occurs approximately every 30 seconds in the United States, totaling over 3,000 burglaries per day. Despite the prevalence of break-ins, only 38% of Americans have a home security system in place to protect their property. The average loss from household burglaries amounts to $2,661, not to mention the emotional toll it takes on victims. Renters are more likely to be victimized by break-ins, with 2021 data showing that 28% of them have experienced property crimes compared to the 27% of owners.

One interesting statistic is about the timing of these crimes. Most burglars attack during daylight hours, with the most common time being between noon and 4 p.m. Additionally, warmer months see an uptick in burglaries, with rural states experiencing higher burglary rates compared to metropolitan areas.

18 Best Home Security Tips & Tricks

Now that you know some facts about home burglaries in the US, you can now tailor your security systems to address vulnerabilities. Here are 18 tips and tricks you might want to consider:

1. Assess Your Neighborhood

Start by evaluating the safety of your neighborhood. Research crime rates, identify prevalent security concerns, and stay informed about local incidents. Collaborate with neighbors and the local police department to establish a sense of community vigilance and support.

2. Identify Vulnerable Areas

Conduct a thorough inspection of your property to pinpoint vulnerable access points. Pay close attention to doors, windows, and other potential access areas. Reinforce weak spots with sturdy locks, deadbolts, and security reinforcements.

3. Set Your Security Goals

Establish clear security objectives tailored to your specific needs and priorities. Whether your focus is on deterring burglaries, enhancing surveillance, or ensuring the safety of your family, define goals that align with your home's security requirements.

4. Know Your Neighbors

Foster positive relationships with your neighbors to create a strong sense of community awareness. Collaborate on neighborhood watch initiatives, share security tips, and look out for one another. A united community is more resilient against potential threats.

5. Display Security Signs

Place visible signs or stickers from your home security provider on your property. These signs act as a deterrent to potential burglars by indicating that your home is protected by a security system. Even if you don't have a security system, the presence of these signs can create doubt in the minds of intruders and make them think twice before targeting your home.

6. Reinforce Exterior Doors

Strengthen your home's exterior doors, especially your garage door, with high-quality locks and deadbolts. Consider installing smart locks for added convenience and security, allowing you to control access remotely and monitor activity. If your door hinges are installed outside, consider moving them inside.

7. Upgrade to Smart Locks

Embrace smart lock technology to enhance your home's security measures. Smart locks offer keyless entry, remote access control, and real-time activity monitoring. Aside from not needing spare keys when you lose or forget your main key, they provide an added layer of protection against unauthorized entry. These locks are perfect to use on your front door.

8. Reinforce Window Locks

Secure windows with robust locks and reinforcements to prevent forced entry. Install sensors or bars especially on first floor windows for additional security, deterring intruders from attempting unauthorized access through vulnerable windows.

9. Window Film and Coverings

Enhance privacy and security by installing window films or coverings. Choose options that obstruct visibility from the outside while allowing natural light to filter through. This not only deters potential burglars but also protects your privacy.

10. Protect Your Basement and Garage

Pay attention to often overlooked areas such as basements and garages. Secure basement and garage doors with strong locks and reinforcements. Consider installing motion sensor lights and a security camera to deter intruders.

11. Consider Outdoor Lighting

Illuminate outdoor areas with strategically placed lighting to deter burglars and enhance visibility. Opt for motion-activated floodlights and energy-efficient fixtures to minimize energy consumption while maximizing security. Additionally, there are security cameras like the Ring Spotlight Cam that have built-in lights that have motion detectors.

12. Fencing and Gates

Install sturdy fences and gates around your property to restrict unauthorized access. Choose materials and designs that provide both security and aesthetic appeal, enhancing the overall safety of your home.

13. Invest in a Home Security System

Install a comprehensive home security system equipped with surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and alarm systems. Choose reputable brands and consult professional installation services for optimal security coverage. Most smart home security systems are designed for easy installation and set-up. Installing an outdoor security camera can be done in minutes.

14. Get a Home Alarm System

Opt for a monitored alarm system that alerts authorities in case of unauthorized entry for extra security. Choose from a variety of alarm systems tailored to your home's needs, providing peace of mind around the clock.

15. Hide Your Valuable Possessions

Conceal valuable possessions in inconspicuous hiding spots to deter burglars. Utilize diversion safes, hidden compartments, or secure storage solutions to safeguard your valuables effectively.

16. Timers for Lights and Electronics

Create the illusion of occupancy by using timers to schedule lights and electronic devices. Program them to activate at random intervals, simulating the presence of occupants even when the house is empty. Having your living room light turned on during the most crucial times could potentially deter burglars.

17. Smart Home Automation

Harness the power of smart home automation to enhance security and convenience and get free security updates on your smartphone in real-time. Integrate smart devices such as video doorbells, thermostats, and lighting systems for remote monitoring and control, ensuring comprehensive security coverage. Smart systems function like a robust security network, with each device communicating with one another.

18. Be Careful With Social Media

Exercise caution when sharing information on social media platforms to avoid compromising home security. Refrain from disclosing travel plans or detailed location information, minimizing the risk of burglary or intrusion.

Bonus Home Security Tips While on Vacation

Going on vacation should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, but it's essential to ensure that your home remains secure while you're away. Here are some practical tips for enhancing home security during your vacation:

1. Stop Deliveries: Contact your local post office and newspaper delivery service to temporarily stop deliveries while you're on vacation. Accumulating packages delivered can signal to potential burglars that nobody is home. Alternatively, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to collect them for you.

2. Set Up Timers for Lights and Electronics: Use timers to automate lights and electronic devices throughout your home. Program them to turn on and off at different times of the day to create the illusion that someone is home. This can deter burglars who may be scouting for empty houses.

3. Arrange for Lawn Care: If you're going away for an extended period, arrange for someone to mow your lawn or shovel snow in your absence. An unkempt lawn or driveway can indicate that nobody is home, making your property a potential break-in target for burglars.

4. Notify Trusted Neighbors: Inform trusted neighbors or friends about your vacation plans and ask them to keep an eye on your property. Provide them with your contact information in case of emergencies and ask them to report any suspicious activity.

5. Install Outdoor Security Lighting: Install motion-activated outdoor lights around your property to deter burglars and illuminate any suspicious activity. Bright lights can startle intruders and alert neighbors to potential security breaches.

6. Secure Doors and Windows: Before leaving for vacation, double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked. Consider installing deadbolts and reinforcing weak entry points to make it more difficult for intruders to gain access to your home.