Home should always feel like your safe place — and while you can’t control everything, there are a lot of small (and some bigger) steps you can take to make your home less appealing to intruders.
Most burglaries are crimes of opportunity, which means the more you “harden the target” — aka make your home look secure — the more likely a thief will move on. And the good news? Many upgrades are affordable or even free!
To make it fun, let’s take a tour through home security A–Z style:
A — Alarm Systems
From simple DIY kits to professionally monitored setups, an alarm system is one of the most effective ways to deter burglars. Choose what fits your lifestyle and budget, and remember: even a yard sign or window sticker helps.
B — Basement Security
Basement windows are often overlooked — but burglars don’t forget them. Add window locks, sensors, or even shatter-resistant film.
C — Cameras
Doorbell cameras, porch cameras, and backyard monitors are now affordable and easy to install. Many sync to your phone, so you can check in anytime.
D — Don’t Forget the Car
Lock it, even in the driveway. Don’t leave mail, packages, or personal info inside. A locked glovebox is your friend.
E — Eliminate Temptations
Close blinds at night, don’t leave laptops in plain view, and keep bikes and tools tucked away. Out of sight = out of mind.
F — Fences & Gates
They can slow someone down — but only if you keep them locked.
G — Garage Safety
Lock the door from the garage to your house and never leave your opener in a car outside.
H — Hide-a-Key (Don’t!)
That fake rock or doormat hideout? Thieves know them all. Use a lockbox or trusted neighbor instead.
I — Inventory Your Valuables
Photos, serial numbers, even an app-based log — these can save headaches if you ever need to file a claim.
J — Join a Watch Group
Neighborhood Watch or even just a group text with neighbors can be an extra set of eyes.
K — Key Fobs
Keep them away from windows and doors; signals can be “hacked” from outside.
L — Lock Everything
Doors, windows, sheds — even when you’re home. Don’t make it easy.
M — Monitor After Service Visits
Lock up valuables and double-check entry points after contractors, cleaners, or deliveries.
N — No Hiding Behind Shrubs
Keep hedges trimmed so windows and entry points are visible from the street.
O — Outdoor Lighting
Motion sensors and solar path lights make a big difference. Darkness = opportunity.
P — Packages
Don’t let them pile up on the porch. Sign up for delivery alerts, or ask a neighbor to grab them.
Q — Quit Posting Travel Pics (Until You’re Home)
Tempting as it is to share, wait until you’re back so you’re not advertising an empty house.
R — Reinforce Doors
Upgrade locks, add deadbolts, and reinforce strike plates. Bonus: a good old-fashioned peephole.
S — Smart Tech
From doorbell cams to automated locks, today’s smart home gadgets put peace of mind in the palm of your hand.
T — Timers & Automation
Make it look like someone’s home — lights, TVs, even a simulated dog bark.
U — Use Common Sense
Don’t leave garage doors open, valuables visible, or house rules ignored.
V — Vacation Checklist
Ask neighbors to collect mail, mow the lawn, and keep things looking “lived in.”
W — Window Sensors & Film
They add an extra layer of defense against break-ins.
X — (eXtra Security for Valuables)
Keep jewelry, important documents, and keepsakes in a safe — preferably fireproof and bolted down.
Y — Yes to Second-Story Safety
Lock upstairs windows and balconies too, especially near trees or flat roofs.
Z — Zero In on Sliding Glass Doors
Use bars, extra locks, or sensors to keep them from being an easy entry point.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need to do everything at once — even adding a few of these tips will make your home a safer, more secure place to come home to.
And remember, the best security system is one you’ll actually use.
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