I was broken into last night. Feeling very shaken and would appreciate advice on the best home security solutions. Please share what has worked for you.
Let’s keep this helpful and kind. Share genuine advice and keep the discussion welcoming.
You need two dogs—a big one to scare intruders and a small one to wake the big one up.
FortressFanatic said:
You need two dogs—a big one to scare intruders and a small one to wake the big one up.
In my experience, the small one usually ends up doing all the work while the big one hides.
FortressFanatic said:
You need two dogs—a big one to scare intruders and a small one to wake the big one up.
Geese are loud and very territorial. They might be a better option.
FortressFanatic said:
You need two dogs—a big one to scare intruders and a small one to wake the big one up.
Geese are loud and very territorial. They might be a better option.
Ostriches could be effective too.
@FortressFanatic
Only if there are no obstacles for them to trip over.
Start with deterrents like cameras, alarms, and motion-activated lights. Lock all windows and avoid leaving ladders or tools around that could help someone break in. We have cameras with overlapping fields of view and alerts to our phones. Adding security lights improved our setup.
@Travis
Don’t forget to back up your camera footage to the cloud. Intruders often steal or damage recorders.
Sullivan said:
@Travis
Don’t forget to back up your camera footage to the cloud. Intruders often steal or damage recorders.
Good point. We keep our recorder in a locked cabinet in the attic. It’s not foolproof, but it makes it harder for them to find.
@Travis
You could also use a cheap decoy recorder in a visible spot.
A big dog with sharp teeth works well. Mine is super friendly, but nobody needs to know that.
Jason said:
A big dog with sharp teeth works well. Mine is super friendly, but nobody needs to know that.
Even a ‘Beware of Dog’ sign can be a strong deterrent.
Sorry to hear that happened. Check out forums like r/homeautomation, r/homesecurity, or r/homedefense for tips.
Smart motion sensors paired with smart lights can be very effective. Set them to trigger alarms and lights after a certain time. Combine them with cameras that you can check remotely to confirm any alerts. This setup can deter intruders and give you peace of mind.
Any dog, even a small one, can deter burglars. Pair that with better locks and visible deterrents like cameras. Recording equipment can help, but burglars expect to be filmed, so it’s not a perfect solution. Focus on what makes you feel secure.
So sorry to hear about your break-in. After a similar experience, we upgraded our locks, added an alarm system with loud sirens, and installed obvious CCTV outside. The police said cameras might not stop a break-in, but they can deter someone from trying.
A good alarm system with motion sensors and door/window contacts is a strong starting point. Pair that with security cameras, motion-activated lights, and visible warning signs. A dog can also help. Security is mostly about making your house less appealing to burglars.
Install a moat and drawbridge. Old-school solutions work too.
ShadowSherpa said:
Install a moat and drawbridge. Old-school solutions work too.
Don’t forget battlements and arrow slits for extra defense.