If you ever watch the news, you’re probably becoming increasingly concerned with security in general. But the area that keeps you awake at night is home security. How easy would it be for someone to break into your home? And what if a criminal is watching the activity patterns around your home?
Well, you can take a deep breath because there are easy and inexpensive ways to secure your home fast.
Here are five must-haves to upgrade the security of your home.
1. Home security system
Even with all the smart technology out there, there’s no replacement for a solid home security system. The sign alone is a deterrent to would-be criminals, but the actual system will keep intruders out and your family safe inside.
At the very least, get a basic system that alerts you to when someone “breaches the perimeter” (i.e., opens an outside door or window).
According to Security Baron, the best home security system for 2019 is ADT. This is an old standby that still has a lot of merit today.
2. Video doorbell
We’ve all heard horror stories about people who opened the door to the wrong person. And we’ve all opened the door to unwanted solicitors that we wish we hadn’t – even if the only consequence was having to listen to a 15-minute elevator pitch.
A video doorbell can help you avoid both of these unwanted situations by showing you exactly who is on the other side of the door. Don’t know who it is? Don’t answer.
3. Outdoor surveillance
Much like the video doorbell, outdoor surveillance systems can help alert you to intruders lurking around your home. Video cameras installed at the front door can catch attempted burglars, vandalists, and package thieves.
And fortunately, these days, outdoor surveillance systems are completely affordable. You can get a camera system that you control with a mobile device for two hundred dollars or less.
Or, if you opt for an advanced home security system, outdoor surveillance may be included.
4. A dog
Because the rest of this list is technology-based, the advice to get a dog may seem surprising. But in reality, dogs are amazing security guards.
Even if you have a small dog, it can alert you when a stranger gets uncomfortably close to your home. And if someone is lurking outside, you can bet your dog will be barking.
With all the other technologies on this list, a dog can help you know when it’s time to check the outdoor surveillance or ensure the security system is engaged.
If you’re allergic to dogs, you can always consider a hypoallergenic breed, like a poodle (or poodle mix), West Highland White Terrier or Tibetan Terrier.
But you should heed this fair warning before you get a dog: This is the only security device you’ll become emotionally attached to.
5. Motion-sensor lights
When you see a robber in the movies, they’re usually lurking around in the dark. This is because, for a criminal, there’s safety in darkness. If no one can see their faces, they can get away with a lot more. That’s why it makes sense to get motion-sensor lights for the perimeter of your home and property. Think about it this way, is any thief going to attempt to open a door or window if there’s a spotlight shining on him? Probably not.
Motion-sensor lights are probably the cheapest and easiest way to protect your home, but they work best when combined with the other items on this list.
No one should feel unsafe in their own home, so if you’re feeling that way, it’s time to take action. Get these five security products and restore your family’s peace of mind.
