Just moved into a new house in a pretty quiet area. My partner thinks an alarm system will keep us safer since it might scare off anyone looking to break in. They say if someone sees the cameras and alarm signs, they’ll probably move along. Has anyone here had an attempted break-in with an alarm system? Would love to hear thoughts!
Most of the time, thieves look for easy targets. If you have cameras and a visible alarm sign, but your neighbor doesn’t, they’re likely to pick the neighbor’s place. It’s not foolproof, though.
The best thing to start with is good lighting. Not the motion-activated kind—use LED lights that stay on from dusk till dawn. Cameras, alarms, and signs are helpful too, but lights make a big difference.
There are interviews with burglars where they explain what they look for. Like others here mentioned, it’s all about how easy it looks to get in. If a place looks tougher to break into, they’ll probably skip it.
If you have a professionally installed alarm—something serious, not just a DIY kit—it can make a big difference. The loud sirens and flashing lights alone are enough to scare most burglars off. They don’t want to be somewhere they can’t hear what’s going on or know if someone’s coming in.
It depends. The police told us that intruders usually want an easy way in without getting noticed. Alarm systems can increase the chances that someone sees or hears them, but it doesn’t necessarily make it harder to break in. If the system alerts the police, that’s a plus. But if response time is slow, it might not help much.
Physical security also matters. Standard doors and windows can be opened pretty fast without extra security. Adding things like mushroom locks or lockable window handles can make it harder for someone to get in, but it can get pricey. You could also add security glass or window grilles.
@Daisy
If you’re interested, there’s a guide online that shows different security upgrades with pictures.
Daisy said:
@Daisy
If you’re interested, there’s a guide online that shows different security upgrades with pictures.
Honestly, who’s downvoting this…a burglar reading the forum?
I think alarms have a limited effect as a deterrent. Look at your home from a burglar’s perspective—if there’s something more appealing about it than the house next door, an alarm might not stop them if it’s worth the risk. A lot of people ignore alarms going off anyway unless it’s a direct neighbor and they know nobody’s home.
Cameras are probably more effective for peace of mind, though they won’t prevent a break-in. Physical security like sturdy locks, lights, and maybe even landscaping that doesn’t create hiding spots are all good ideas. Alarm or not, it’s better to make your house look hard to approach.
I’m actually more worried about safety at night when my partner is working. Not just a break-in but something more serious. Appreciate any advice!
Norah said:
I’m actually more worried about safety at night when my partner is working. Not just a break-in but something more serious. Appreciate any advice!
Alarms, cameras, and visible signs are good, but nothing’s 100%. Make sure doors and accessible windows have sensors and that your system is on at night. Maybe consider a monitored alarm with a panic button, something you can keep close at night.
Norah said:
I’m actually more worried about safety at night when my partner is working. Not just a break-in but something more serious. Appreciate any advice!
Have you thought about getting a dog?
Norah said:
I’m actually more worried about safety at night when my partner is working. Not just a break-in but something more serious. Appreciate any advice!
In that case, cover all doors and windows that could be accessed from outside. Set the alarm on ‘stay’ mode, so all the entry points are covered, and you’re alerted right away if anything happens. Gives you time to react if someone’s trying to get in.