Home Security News

Residential Garage Door Security

Have you taken a good look at your garage doors lately?  For many folks, the garage can be a vulnerable spot when it comes to burglarly potential.  Residential garage door security is as important to consider as every other aspect of your home's security.

You want to fortify your garage door and entry doors in order to reduce your risk of being burglarized.  Most thieves will move on to another house if they spend a couple minutes checking yours out and find it well secured.  Here's a list of things to do to turn them away from your garage:

• Place deadbolts on all exterior doors.
• Install a deadbolt as well as a lock on doors leading from attached garages and into the house.
• If you have an old garage door opener system, upgrade to a modern unit that uses rolling code technology.
• When you go out of town, stick a padlock through your garage door track above one of the rollers.
• Make sure windows have locks and, if they slide, bars.
• Don't leave ladders or other tools around the house, which thieves could use to gain entry.

More tips on garage security.

Little Things Count When It Comes to Protecting Your Home

Sure, you can spend thousands of dollars on a brand new alarm system, or you can spend hundreds setting up a DIY system you found on the Internet, but an interview with an Indiana police chief reminds us that the little things matter too.  He recommends you:

• Cut down hedges, which are classic hiding spots for burglars.
• Get motion-sensing lights that turn on automatically (thieves prefer to work in the dark).
• Get to be friends with your neighbors, so people are familiar with what's going on (and what shouldn't be going on) on your property when you're not around.
• Get a dog (though it should be as a family friend and not just to bark at strangers).

Other tips are available at the original article: Safe at Home? Burglaries Are down but Homeowners Can Decrease the Odds Even More

Garage Security Tips

How secure is your garage?  Is that the easy way in the house if you've forgotten your key?  According to these garage security tips, that part of the house is the most vulnerable for many people.  Locks on doors are frequently wimpy compared to the deadbolts and such on the front door of the residence, and windows are far enough away from the main living areas that you might not hear if someone broke through the glass.  Either way, this would allow a burglar entry into the house if you have an attached garage.

Even if you have a detached garage, it may house tools such as ladders or axes that a burglar could make use of to get into the main house.

This is why garage security is just as important as security for the rest of your house.  Make sure to incorporate it into the rest of your home safety plan.  More information at:

Is Your Garage Secure?

So, You Want to Start a Neighborhood Watch

A neighborhood watch is always a good idea, and sometimes you are lucky enough to move into a neighborhood where there's a good one in place and you don't have to do much to be a part of it.  Other times, you're less lucky.  Your neighborhood might not have one or it might have an ineffective one where nobody is really doing anything. 

If you feel like it's up to you to get something started, chances are everyone on your block will go along with it.  This is one area where people are willing to put out a little effort, because everyone wants to feel safe in their home, and they want to know their home is being watched if they're out of town.  This article on starting a neighborhood watch offers information on how to go about getting one up and running. 

Fortunately, it's not too tough.  It's usually just a matter of talking to your local police department and setting a few things in motion.

Before You Buy a Burglar Alarm...

Thinking of buying a home security system?  It's a smart choice.  It will protect your home, your family, and your belongings, and you'll just feel safer and more secure when you're at home.  You want to be careful when you go out to buy, however.  There are some dealers who will try to get you to buy more than you need.  You can also get locked into costly contracts that will require you to pay monthly monitoring fees (monitored service isn't a downside, but contracts can be--you want some wiggle room so you can walk away if you're not happy with the service).

Anyway, for more information, I suggest reading the set of articles up at Home Security Systems 101. 

Common Sense Security Tips

Here's a new article up over at Lifehacker with some "Common Sense Home Security Tips."  It's good to see articles that tell you how to make your home safer without necessarily investing in alarm systems that can cost thousands of dollars to install (not to mention monthly monitoring fees).  It's great if you can afford all that, but not all of us can.  This article covers the more basic stuff (keys, locks, windows, monitoring your habits, etc.)  It's definitely worth a read.

10 Mistakes Burglars Love It When You Make

by "An ex-burglar (reformed. really.)"

1. Leave the doors unlocked.  Hello, McFly!  Did you want me to just walk in and swipe your jewelry and that phat new plasma TV?
2. Leave the windows unlocked.  Almost as good.  If you don't think a window is just another door for me, you lack imagination.  And no, second floor heights don't vex me much either.
3. Leave your tool shed unlocked.  Notice a locking theme here?  People are always leaving their tool/garden/potting sheds unlocked because they don't think there's anything valuable inside, so why bother?  Because things like ladders, shovels, and axes help heaps when I need to break a window or get to the second story.  Why would I even bother lugging my own tools around when y'all are always so accomodating?
4. Build a high fence/private yard.  Oh, yeah.  You don't like the neighbors peeping you while you're relaxing in the backyard.  Well, guess what?  Private secluded yards mean I can saunter around, doing my thing, knowing no irritatingly alert neighbor will see me and call the cops.
5. No outdoor lighting. I love dark and shady nooks to hide in.  By failing to put in heat- or motion-sensing lighting around your home, you're just inviting me to creep in some night.
6. No home security system.  What are you?  New?  Without a home security system, there's nothing from keeping me from throwing a rock through your window, letting myself in, and taking off with all your stuff.  Better make sure you have an up-to-date security system that rings the cops or a monitoring company when something happens.  Otherwise, well, I'll see you later.
7. Keys in the car in the driveway/garage.  Some people make it so easy.  You'll never hear me get in and cruise off with your favorite ride.
8. Webcam as "home surveillance system."  You're kidding, right?  First off, I'm wearing a mask, so all that footage you're going to get is some depressing pictures of an anonymous figure swiping all your stuff.  Second, I'm taking your computer when I go, so you better be storing that footage somewhere off site.  Even if you are, I'll be long gone by the time you check it and come running home.
9. Safes that aren't bolted down.  I love it when people have these twenty pound safes sitting on a bookshelf with all their valuables in them.  Like I've got a genetic lifting disorder or something.  Nothing's stopping me from taking the whole safe with me, then having my safe-cracking buddies pry it open at their leisure.
10. "Hidden keys." I especially love homeowners who hide spare keys under doormats, planters, rocks, and other spots in the yard, thinking they're oh-so-clever.  Come on people, I do this for a living.  I know where you're gonna hide that key before you do.

Outdoor Lighting Cheap Way to Fight Off Burglars

Got good outdoor lighting?  Why not?

It's easy to spend thousands on a high-tech home security system, and I'm not going to argue that it isn't money well spent, but you don't want to forget the simple things as you're setting up that expensive 8-camera home surveillance system.  Sturdy doors and locks will keep burglars from gaining access in the first place.  Locks for your windows are likewise important.  According to a recent article called "Ten Steps to Home Security," adding outdoor lighting is a home improvement with a small cost that can make a big difference. 

"Burglars don't like to be seen and are more likely to avoid areas where they risk being spotted, such as well-lighted places. Consider installing an outdoor lighting system, especially if your yard is concealed by a lot of foliage. Some lights work on a timer, engaging when it begins to darken; others are activated through motion. Motion lights near walkways and doorways can provide important visibility of approaching persons."

From ClickOnDetroit.com

Outdoor Storage Sheds

Outdoor storage sheds should be secured just as with anything else in your home.  There are two reasons.  First off, anything valuable inside could easily be stolen if the shed isn't locked properly.  And second, the tools (rakes, ladders, axes, etc.) you keep in your storage shed could be used to aid a burglar in breaking into your primary residence. 

The "Lock Up Your Stuff" section of do! Magazine's November 2005 issues recommends installing latches that will support a padlock.  "When you buy a padlock, make sure you get one that is laminated.  Buy the heaviest duty padlock you can so it takes lots of effort for someone to cut through it."

The article also recommends installing a motion-sensing light near the storage shed doors so intruders will be more likely to be scared away.  Also, make sure you lock the shed whenever you're done using the tools and especially if you are going away on vacation.

Why Change Your Locks When You Move In?

If you've recently (or not so recently) moved into a new home and didn't change the locks, you could be setting yourself up for an unpleasant experience.  A UK article, Spare Keys Undermine Home Security, notes that people often give away spare keys to friends and family but don't always bother to reclaim them when they move.  If you move into a house that's had three owners and the locks have never been changed, imagine how many people might have keys to your home.  It's even a good idea to change the locks when moving into a new apartment.  It's not something landlords usually bother with, but the article notes, "Seven per cent of tenants do not return their spare keys when moving out, increasing the possibility that a stranger has access to your house."

Changing the locks is a simple DIY project that can be done in a day.  Maybe it's time for a trip to the hardware store...

Lock Between Garage and House, Do You Have One?

In some areas like the Puget Sound, you frequently find houses with no deadbolt or lock of any kind on the door that leads from the garage to the house.  Since it is generally easier to break into a garage than a house (it's usually in a part of the house where broken windows won't be heard unless there's an alarm system with glass break sensors), why make it easy on thieves to gain access into the main part of your house from the garage?  The book Better Houses, Better Living: What To Look for When Buying, Building or Remodeling recommends you install both a lock and a deadbolt on the garage-to-house door (and every other door leading into your house for that matter). 

Cheap Home Security

An online news articled called Home Security Doesn't Have to Be Expensive reminds us that while expensive alarm systems and remote monitoring are nice, common sense goes a long way in protecting your home, too.  If you can't afford a big system right now, just make sure you're doing the basic stuff. 

Replace old hollow-core dores with solid all-wood or metal doors, and install good locks and deadbolts.  Also install secure locks on windows and make sure you don't leave windows open at night or when you're away from home.  Don't leave hide-a-keys outside the house, and don't give keys to people who don't live in your home. 

The article talks about some sort of gimmicky stuff like fake barking dog alarms and other scarecrow kind of systems that may or may not work.  Sticking with the basics and making sure your house doesn't look like an easy target may go farther in protecting your property and your family.

More helpful articles:

How to Modify Your Landscape to Protect Your House from Burglars
Common Sense Home Security
Personal Security for the Home, Street, and When Traveling

Open Windows Can Be a Problem

With warmer weather coming on, it's natural to want to open the windows and let in some cool breezes and fresh air, however, the National Crime Prevention Council reminds us that you can let in thieves that way, too. 

With the arrival of spring weather, you may be tempted to leave your windows and doors open to let the fresh air in, but this can also let a thief into your home. The National Crime Prevention Council says more than 60 percent of completed burglaries take place without any sign of forced entry.

Make sure to close and lock windows when you go to bed for the night or when you leave your home.  For tips on keeping your home secure this summer, check out their short article called, "Open Windows Let in Fresh Air and Crooks: Home Security Tips for Spring and Summer."

Moving into a New Home: Security Priorities

When you move into a new home, there are a couple security steps you'll want to take right away to ensure your family's safety.  First, change the locks.  There's no telling how many people have keys to that house, but at a minium, the old owners do.  Next, get involved with the Neighborhood Watch; if there isn't one set up, check in with the local police station and find out how to start one.  Lastly, if there is an existing home security system (burglar alarm, etc.), have a professional come out to inspect it and make sure everything is in working order.  Also, as with the locks, make sure you change the codes.

Source: May 4th, 3005 episode of It Takes a Thief

Tips for Securing Home, Garage, and Yard

Discovery's home security related TV show It Takes a Thief also has a website (http://dsc.discovery.com/fansites/ittakesathief/splash.html).  Within the site, you can find five pages of home security tips that are worth reading through.  They cover specific areas such as house, garage, yard, and what to do when your family is leaving for a vacation.  Check it out at Discovery's Home Security Tips.

Facts About Burglars

The Home Security Test is a concise article that starts out with a list of home theft related factoids such as "Most crimes happen because someone gave a criminal an opportunity to act...Little planning goes into most burglaries...Professional burglars are very rare...Most burglars are neighborhood juveniles...Most burglars are never caught...Most stolen property is never recovered."  Though it's a ten year old article, most of the information is still pretty pertinent.  The second part includes a checklist to help you insure your home is not vulnerable.

Lockboxes for Keys

I admit, I'm guilty of just throwing my keys on the table next to the door when I come home, but if you look at that from a home security perspective, it sure would make things convenient for a thief. In order to make it harder for someone to snatch your house/car keys if they got into your house or garage, you can get lockboxes that mount on the wall.  Working somewhat like safes, these lockboxes are opened with either a key or a combination that you punch into a keypad.

Example:

Key Lock Box Safe

Check Your Alarms Annually

They had a good tip tonight on It Takes a Thief.  Even if you have a home security system, it won't do you much good if it's been neglected.  The show suggested having your alarm company come out once a year for a routine maintence check.  Some of the things they can check for are loose wires, wires gnawed on by wildlife, and faulty motion detectors or sensors.

No Names on the Mailbox, Please

After watching a couple episodes of It Takes a Thief, I've noticed a trend... the would-be burglars always get the phone number of the target house after finding out the name and address from the mailbox. From that information, it's simple for them to call an operator and find out the number (you'd think in this era of rampant identity theft, phone companies would have to be stricter about giving out numbers, but apparently not). Then they call the homeowners to find out whether they're at home. If no one is, they know they can get to work.

The lesson? Don't put your name on your mailbox. Nobody needs to know that information. Instead, the show recommends putting your house numbers in large print on the mailbox. Using reflective stickers that can be seen in the dark by an ambulance or police car is the best choice.

Introduction to Home Security Systems

You know you want a home security system to protect your family and belongings, but you may be hearing a lot of conflicting information on what you need and don't need. There are a lot of options out there, and electronics dealers and home security specialists always seem to want to sell you the fanciest, most detailed system. But is all that necessary?

What Should You Look for in Home Security, a thorough article on a TCPalm.com home improvement site, takes a look at what's out there. It offers concise information on how much security the average home needs, how alarm systems effect home insurance premiums, benefits and costs, and choosing a system. It's a good starting place if you're new to home security systems or not sure what you need.

Other helpful sites:

Home Security Information & Articles
How Stuff Works Home Security Channel
MSN Home Security Guide
Practical Guide To Home Security

Securing Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding glass doors can be a hassle to secure since anyone with a hammer would be able to break the glass and enter.  The first thing you want to do to secure a sliding glass door is to have a stury key lock mechanism.  That much is obvious.  You'll want to back that up with the installation of a dowel or pin--that prevents the glass door from being jerked off the track.

You may also want to consider motion sensors for your doors and windows (i.e. the First Alert Door/Window Sensor ), as these will set off an audible alarm when someone tries to force their way in.

More resources:
Scroll down to Sliding Glass Doors at the Home Security Checklist
Securing Doors & Windows: FAQ

Securing Your Vacation Home

Vacation Home Security.

There's nothing like family trips to a vacation home a couple times a year, but you need to think about what's going on when you're not there. Whether or not you rent it out the rest of the year, you should think about security. Many of the same types of systems that you would use in your regular home are applicable in your vacation home. However, it's important to remember you may be hundreds of miles away, so an alarm system that simple screeches may not be that effective (especially in a remote location). Think about motion detectors that turn on lights, landscaping that doesn't leave room for burglars to hide in (have someone come in from time to time to trim the lawn and shrubbery), and asking a neighbor to check in occassionally if there is a nearby permanent resident. It may be worth your peace of mind to install an active alarm system where you'll get a cell phone call if an intruder is detected on the premises. From there you can call the local police station where your vacation home is located.

Further reading:
15 Tips For Closing Your Vacation Home
Securing Your Vacation Home

Why Hollow-core Doors Should Be Replaced

Hollow-core doors are too easy for burglars to break through. You want a door that presents a solid and sturdy front to your home. Even solid wood doors less than 1 and 3/4 inches thick may not provide enough of a deterrent to a determined thief. Better choices are solid wood doors approximately 2 inches thick or metal reinforced doors--metal is the superior choice. Metal-clad doors are the most secure because the steel exterior over the wood makes it very difficult for intruders to bust down. When you're replacing your front door, don't forget to take a good look at side, garage, and back doors as well. A strong front door might not be any help if you have a flimsy back door.

Reference: Replacing Hollow-Core Doors

Fake Security Cameras, Do They Work?

Homeowners who can't afford an expensive all-inclusive home security system often consider employing tricks such as fake security cameras (also called "dummy cameras") posted above the driveway or stickers that say something like "Property protected by ".

Will something as simple as a sticker or a $20 fake security camera fool a burglar? The answer is a resounding.... maybe.

An experienced burglar who is determined to get into your home may recognize the ruse for what it is and pry his way in regardless. However, many burglaries are crimes of the moment, meaning they aren't necessarily undertaken by experts and the burglar might just be hoping for an easy mark in order to make some quick cash. A burglar like this may very well take a look at that dummy camera or sticker next to the front door and think why chance it?

So basically, fake security cameras and stickers aren't the best solution, but they may be better than nothing.

Fake Security Camera:
Sylvania SY-600 Simulated Security Camera
Browse Wireless Security Products

How Burglars Pick Your Locks

Ever wonder how those guys pick your locks? It looks so easy on TV...

Check out How Lock Picking Works from How Stuff Works. If nothing else, it'll make you think twice about getting a home security system.

Security Basics: Doors & Windows

Sure, you can spend thousands on a state-of-the-art home security system, but if that kind of money isn't available to you, it may not be an option. However, you can go a long way in making your home more secure simply by upgrading your doors and windows, including locks. According to an article by Better Homes & Gardens, Securing Entry Doors , "Most burglars are lazy: They like to get into a house the same way you do—by walking through a door." By improving your doors, you make your house a less convenient target for burglars.

This series of articles by Better Homes & Gardens goes on to explain how to add a deadbolt, how to make your doors sturdier, and how to treat your windows to make them less accessible.

Door and Window Security: Deadbolts -- why and how to add deadbolts
Door and Window Security: Door Components -- this talks about frames, hinges, and the like -- basically how to reinforce doors to ensure they can't just be kicked in.
Door and Window Security: Windows -- this talks about various types of windows (double hung windows, casement windows, sliding glass windows, etc.) and how to secure them so they create a serious obstacle for would-be thieves.

Property Identification

According to The Complete Idiot's Guide to Home Security, property identification (branding your belongings) can reduce a thief's ability to fence your stuff thus making your valuables less appealing targets. For bicycles and smaller items, try an electronic engraving pen. For larger items such as lawn equipment, use a metal stamp. Make your mark unique, but don't use your social security number (SSN's play a big part in identity theft situations). Try your driver's license number or some combination of your initials and birthdate, just so long as you can prove it belongs to you.

Your local law enforcement agency may already have a program in place to help citizens with property identification that comes with forms, engraving tools, and instructions. It doesn't hurt to ask.

Thwarting Burglars with... Shrubs?

While there's no replacement for a good home security system, you can actually make your home a safer place by employing some creative landscaping. According to Home Security Your Guide to Protecting Your Family, "thorny hedges, dense shrubbery, and even rosebushes planted along the property line can create a barrier" (P. 8) that will turn off trespassers.

It makes sense if you think about it. Hard to sneak into somebody's house when you're distracted by the thorns protruding from your legs... The book goes on to recommend Barberry, Hawthorne, and Rose shrub as popular plants with prickly characteristics. Of course, your climate and where you live will dictate what makes sense for your yard. Take a trip to the local garden shop and find out what's popular in your area.

Outdoor Lights and Proper Landscaping Stop Burglars

Landscaping that hides your doors and windows from the street, providing copious hiding places, can be a home security nightmare. Likewise, burglars love poor lighting that provides lots of dark shadows for them to work in. On the other hand, landscaping and lighting plans with some thought behind them can actually improve the overall effectiveness of your home security plan. Gravel in front of windows can make noise when intruders try to get in. Motion-detecting or heat-detecting lights can brighten up the yard when trespassers come to close at night.

The following articles provide numerous landscaping for home security tips:

Home Security: Neighbors, landscaping, lights help
Home Security: Modify Your Landscaping to Protect Your House from Burglars

Vacation Months Attract Criminals: Crime Prevention

Taking a vacation in August? You may want to take some preventive measures to protect your home while you're gone. According to an article in mlive.com, many burglars only try to break into a house for 60 seconds before moving on to an easier target. Taking simple precautions like setting timers for outdoor lights, ensuring locks are good-quality, and informing your neighbors you'll be away so they can watch the premises, can go a long way in deterring thieves.

Read article.

Low Cost Home Security Improvements

Concerned about home security? Not sure you can afford a fancy alarm system? An article in the Wichita Eagle offers some suggestions for simple home security steps you can take to beef up your security without breaking the bank. For instance, replacing regular locks with deadbolts will cost you less than $15. Creating a reinforced door is a simple matter of buying a box of 2 1/2"-3" screws and replacing the smaller ones in your door jambs.

For more tips, read "Boost home security without spending a lot"

Also check out:

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Home Security

Trim Those Shrubs!

Heavy foliage near your house can provide nooks for burglars to hide in. Tree branches near second story windows can provide ladders for thieves to climb up. Dark yards without outdoor lighting provide ample shadows for intruders.

This press release from Yahoo News offers a number of tips on making your home safer through a little bit of simple yard work.

Going on Vacation? Is Your Home Secure?

It's hard to rest easy when you're on vacation if you're not sure your house is secure. The Decatur Daily published a helpful article on preparing your home for a vacation, offering numerous tips on keeping your house safe from burglars while you're gone.

Read