Everyone wants to feel safe in their home, but not everyone knows how to go about it.
From easy fixes like installing a security system or adding locks for the doors and windows, to more complicated measures like purchasing an alarm monitoring service, there are many ways you can keep your family safe at home. But which ones will work best for you?
Here are nine things that make a great home security system:
1) Sufficient lighting around the home – Whether with motion lights or just natural light from the sun during the day, having enough light around your property is one of the easiest ways to deter potential burglars.
This may seem like a given for any good security system, but it is actually one of the most important factors for keeping your family safe at home.
This doesn’t mean you have to keep your house lit up like a Christmas tree at all hours of the night, but having lights by your door and driveway can make it harder for intruders to sneak around and hide from plain sight, and it makes it easier for security cameras to capture good footage of them should they succeed in breaking in no matter where they are placed.
Consider using motion-activated lights around your home as these will make it nearly impossible for anyone to sneak around when they think they’re in the dark. Thieves who may be looking to snatch something from your yard or break into your car won’t want to stick around when there’s a spotlight shining right on them.
2) A privacy fence – A privacy fence can go a long way when it comes to home security. It allows you and your family to feel secure in your own backyard while letting potential intruders know that they are being watched by an owner of the property.
It also keeps people from simply walking into your yard from the street and making their way onto your porch or up to your front door, giving them less of an opportunity to be noticed by you.
3) Insurance – The cost of insurance may seem daunting upfront, but if someone breaks into your house while you’re covered, it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Purchasing home insurance is a smart way to financially protect yourself in the event that you’re robbed or your property is damaged, and it can make it easier for you to replace stolen and/or damaged items like televisions, laptops, etc.
You may have to pay an additional fee if you want to add on coverage for theft of jewelry or other expensive items, but even if you only have coverage for theft of a couple of thousand dollars worth of items, that can often be enough to replace what was stolen and then some.
It’s also nice to know that in case the worst does happen, you’re already prepared and covered by your insurance company.
4) Good locks – The initial cost may be low, but the cost of re-keying or replacing your locks after every break-in could prove extremely expensive over time. Invest in quality locks that will last and can’t easily be broken into with everyday tools – even if it’s more expensive than the average lock.
Ensuring that every door has a deadbolt lock installed is an easy way to help keep your entire home secure since even doors that don’t lead outside can still be an entry point to burglars. Deadbolt locks come in handy during break-ins, since the lock is designed to give way when it is drilled or forced open, preventing the door from being pushed wide open and making it easier for you to escape or call for help.
5) Alarm systems – If you can’t have an in-home security guard, you may want to invest in a monitored alarm service that will alert law enforcement of any break-in or disturbance at your home.

An alarm system is one of the most effective ways to keep your family safe at home. Not only can it work as a deterrent for potential burglars and intruders, but in some cases, it can also act as the primary proof that you are being robbed. This, in turn, may make police come to your aid more quickly when it’s a priority call, increasing your chances of being saved from harm.
6) Windows and doors – Your home security system are only as good as its weakest link. If your front door locks are easy to pick or your windows have faulty latches that can easily be jimmied up with just about anything, it doesn’t matter how many security cameras are recording your home, someone can still easily get into do you and your family harm.
If you have a great view that comes with large windows, it’s best to invest in window tinting or blinds and curtains for your main living areas. This will keep home security threats from being able to monitor activity inside at all times of day and night.
7) Video surveillance – Many newer homes and apartments come with video surveillance already included, but if you’re renting or don’t have the luxury of video cameras on your property, a simple home surveillance system could do the trick. Many modern systems can be accessed from your smartphone, so you’ll always know what’s going on in or around your home no matter where you are.
By doing just a little bit of research and investing in some simple home security features, you can help keep yourself and your loved ones much safer – even if you’re not a millionaire.
8) Dogs – If you’re away from the house often and can’t be there to protect it yourself, consider buying a dog that will bark at any strangers in the yard. A watchdog will help you sleep soundly at night while you’re away and catch burglars in the act.

If you live in a secluded area and are able to allow your dogs to roam free outside, you may want to consider getting a Rottweiler or Doberman. These breeds have been found to be the best watchdogs, according to many experts and dog lovers alike.
Regardless of what breed of dog you choose, however, just make sure that it is large and intimidating enough that would-be criminals will think twice before approaching your home. These dogs tend to be the best protectors of your property and family overall – even if they are just big babies at heart when you get home from work or school.
9) Signs – Make sure to put up warning signs that announce you’ve got security cameras recording everything, as well as a dog in the yard. This may be enough to stop potential burglars from targeting your home and possibly save yourself money on insurance in the long run.
When in doubt, remember the mantra of a good security system: security through obscurity. If your home is so unique or out of the way that people don’t know about it, they’re less likely to want to break in – after all, they won’t be able to pawn anything you have there quickly and easily.
Locksmith and Door Services You Can Depend On
There are many different things you can do to make your home a safer place. The most important thing is that you take steps to protect yourself and your family from harm, no matter what the cost may be.
If all of this has inspired you and you want help putting together a plan for how to keep your family safe in any situation, we’re here to help! Let us know if we can partner with you so we can come up with an effective security system tailored just for your needs.
For more information on our company’s services or products, feel free to contact us at (240)-744-4689!