The Top Security Measures You Should Implement

What You Need:

• A security camera system (e.g., Ring, Nest, Arlo)
• Motion detectors and sensors
• A control hub or app

DIY Steps:

1. Choose a system that fits your home size and security needs.
2. Install cameras at key entry points like the front and back doors, as well as areas with low visibility, such as side windows or patios.
3. Set up motion sensors to alert you if someone is approaching your home.
4. Integrate the system with your smartphone so you can monitor your home remotely.

Bonus Tip: Many smart security systems also offer two-way audio, so you can communicate with delivery personnel or deter potential intruders from afar.

2. Upgrade Your Door Locks

The entry points of your home are the first line of defense against burglars. Upgrading your door locks is an essential step in making your home more secure. Traditional locks can be vulnerable, but smart locks offer convenience and advanced security features.

What You Need:

• A smart lock (e.g., August, Schlage, Yale)
• A smartphone app for remote access

DIY Steps:

1. Remove your old deadbolt lock and install the new smart lock on your front door or any other entry point.
2. Sync the lock with your smartphone app for remote access.
3. Set up virtual keys for family members or guests and adjust permissions as needed.

Bonus Tip: Many smart locks offer keyless entry, which means no more lost or stolen keys. Some even include tamper alerts to notify you if someone tries to tamper with the lock.

3. Reinforce Windows and Sliding Doors

Windows and sliding doors are common entry points for burglars. Reinforcing them with additional security measures can make it much harder for intruders to break in.

What You Need:

• Window security film
• Sliding door locks or security bars
• Window sensors

DIY Steps:

1. Apply security window film to windows that are particularly vulnerable to break-ins. This film holds glass together in case of a breakage, preventing easy access.
2. Install sliding door security bars or additional locks to prevent the door from being forced open.
3. Place sensors on windows and sliding doors to alert you when they are opened unexpectedly.

Bonus Tip: Some security systems offer glass break detectors that can alert you when the sound of breaking glass is detected, providing another layer of protection.

4. Install Motion-Sensing Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting plays a significant role in deterring criminal activity. Motion-sensing lights illuminate areas around your home when someone approaches, making it harder for intruders to move unnoticed.

What You Need:

• Motion-sensing outdoor lights (e.g., Ring Floodlight, Lutron Casetta)

DIY Steps:

1. Install motion-sensing lights at strategic locations around your home, such as the front porch, driveway, and yard.
2. Position lights to cover dark areas where intruders may hide, such as behind bushes or along fences.
3. Set the lights to automatically turn on when motion is detected.

Bonus Tip: Motion lights can also be integrated with your smart security system, allowing you to control them remotely and receive alerts when they are triggered.

5. Create a Safe Room

A safe room is a designated area in your home where you can go in case of an emergency, providing an extra layer of protection during a break-in. This room should be equipped with reinforced doors, a communication device, and essential supplies.

What You Need:

• Reinforced door or security door
• A reliable communication device (e.g., a landline or smartphone)
• Emergency supplies (water, first aid kit, etc.)

DIY Steps:

1. Choose a room in your home that’s easy to secure and away from main entry points, such as a basement or interior room.
2. Reinforce the door with a solid core or install a security door.
3. Place a phone in the room so you can call for help if needed.
4. Stock the room with essentials like water, non-perishable food, and a first aid kit.

Bonus Tip: Make sure all family members know the location of the safe room and have a plan for accessing it in case of an emergency.

6. Use Smart Doorbell Cameras

Smart doorbell cameras are an excellent way to monitor who’s at your front door. They allow you to see and communicate with visitors remotely, making it more difficult for strangers to approach your home without being detected.

What You Need:

• A smart doorbell camera (e.g., Ring, Nest Hello)

DIY Steps:

1. Replace your current doorbell with a smart doorbell camera.
2. Sync the device to your smartphone or home hub to receive alerts and video feeds when someone approaches.
3. Set up motion detection to receive notifications when someone is near your door.

Bonus Tip: Smart doorbells also have a two-way audio feature, allowing you to talk to anyone at your door, whether you're home or away.

7. Secure the Perimeter with Fencing and Gates

A well-maintained fence or gate can be a strong physical barrier against intruders. It not only adds privacy but also makes it harder for burglars to gain access to your home.

What You Need:

• A solid fence or gate
• Motion detectors or security cameras for the perimeter

DIY Steps:

1. Install a tall, solid fence around your property to limit access to your yard and home.
2. Secure the gate with a smart lock or an additional deadbolt for added security.
3. Install motion detectors or cameras along the perimeter of your property for added monitoring.

Bonus Tip: Ensure that your fence and gate are well-lit, as dark, hidden areas provide cover for burglars.

Conclusion

Building a safe home requires careful planning and the implementation of strategic security measures. From installing a smart security system and upgrading locks to reinforcing windows and creating a safe room, each step you take adds a layer of protection for your family and home. By prioritizing safety and investing in smart technologies, you can ensure your home remains a secure and peaceful place to live.