I’m diving into the topic of home security, really trying to cover all the bases beyond the obvious stuff to feel safer at home. There are tons of tips out there - from YouTube channels and blog posts to deep discussions on this forum.
So I’m curious: what’s one home security tip or resource (a video, article, post, etc.) that made you go, ‘Wow, I never thought of that!’? Maybe it’s something small but super effective, a common security gap people overlook, or a unique security hack.
If you’ve come across anything that’s been really useful or changed the way you think about security, please share!
Lock your doors, add good lighting, maybe even get a dog or consider self-defense tools. That covers 95% of what helps. You might skip the dog or gun, but locking things up and having bright lights or motion lights can make a big difference. For serious intrusions, it’s good to be prepared.
I have exterior cameras too, but I only added them after a bad experience with an ex who broke a window. It helps me keep an eye on things when I’m not home.
@Cedric
Not all of us live in gun-friendly countries, or even want a gun. Sure, I could get one, but it’s just not worth the legal hassle or the attention that comes with it.
Bryce said: @Cedric
Not all of us live in gun-friendly countries, or even want a gun. Sure, I could get one, but it’s just not worth the legal hassle or the attention that comes with it.
Totally get that. For many people, though, having one can add security. No one’s trying to convince you; it’s just info for those who might be interested.
If you’re not up for that, there are non-lethal options like pepper spray or a stun gun.
Saw a post here about treating security as a series of layers. It got me thinking about my setup. Basically, if one thing fails, you have something else ready to take over. It’s a solid approach that applies to all kinds of security setups, not just at home.
Sure, here’s what I do at home with layers. So, my home has a gate by the sidewalk; you need to get past that first. Then there’s motion sensors placed ‘far’ and ‘near’ around the house.
If I hear the far alarm, someone’s coming closer. If the near alarm goes off, then they’re really close to my door or side gate.
My side gate also has a second inner gate. They’ll have to deal with that too. Now, if they want to smash a window to get in, my windows are higher off the ground, making it tricky. Plus, they’re reinforced with security film and caulking, so breaking in isn’t simple.
All these layers are meant to slow someone down, giving me time to respond, call for help, or prepare to defend myself. You could do similar layers with visibility (like clear sightlines), physical obstacles, signs warning intruders, and alarms for yourself.
Avoid WiFi cameras. Thieves are catching on and using cheap gadgets to jam them, so they just stop recording. A lot of people have been left with zero footage after break-ins. If you’re going to have cameras, go with wired ones, and get rid of the WiFi hassle altogether.
Security film on all ground-floor windows. It makes it way harder for anyone to break the glass, which buys you more time to call for help or defend yourself.
I started listening to a podcast by Jocko Willink, a former SEAL commander. He mostly talks about leadership, but a lot of his mindset advice really helped me rethink how I handle home security and other parts of my life.