Protecting your home is more sophisticated than ever, with new technologies, smarter criminals, and evolving risks. Whether you are a first-time homeowner or looking to upgrade your security, understanding the latest recommendations will help you make informed decisions and keep your family and property safe.

Key Areas to Assess in Home Security

A thorough home security assessment should cover multiple layers, both physical and digital:

• Entry Points: Doors and windows are the most common targets. Ensure they are always locked-even when you are home-and secured with deadlocks or reinforced with solid cores and heavy-duty strike plates.
• Perimeter Security: Maintain a secure boundary with fences or walls, trim overgrown shrubs near entryways, and lock garages and sheds.
• Lighting: Install motion-activated lighting around entryways to deter intruders.
• Surveillance: Use cameras with motion detection and live streaming, ideally covering all sides of your house. Store footage securely.
• Cybersecurity: Regularly update passwords on smart home devices and Wi-Fi networks, enable two-factor authentication, and use a password manager.
• Community Involvement: Get to know your neighbors and consider joining or forming a neighborhood watch group. They can help monitor for unusual activity when you are away.
• Emergency Preparedness: Have an emergency plan and keep smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in working order.

Best DIY Home Security Options and Systems

DIY home security systems have surged in popularity for their affordability, flexibility, and ease of installation. Leading options include:

• SimpliSafe: Known for its easy installation, affordable equipment, and flexible monitoring options. It offers a wide range of accessories and is highly customizable.
• Ring Alarm (2nd-gen and Pro): Offers reliable kits with seamless integration for Amazon Alexa users, motion sensors, and optional professional monitoring.
• ADT Self Setup: Provides high-quality equipment and the option for professional monitoring.
• Cove, abode, Frontpoint, Deep Sentinel: Each offers unique strengths, such as affordability, flexible monitoring, excellent customer service, or advanced video monitoring.

DIY systems typically allow you to pick components tailored to your needs, from door/window sensors to smart locks and cameras. Installation is straightforward, and most systems offer app-based controls and notifications, with optional upgrades for professional monitoring.

Where to Find Objective Reviews and Comparisons

For unbiased, up-to-date reviews and side-by-side comparisons of home security services, turn to reputable sources such as:

• Wirecutter (The New York Times): Offers in-depth, hands-on testing and clear recommendations for both DIY and professional systems.
• CNET: Provides detailed reviews, real-world testing, and trend analysis on the latest security systems and features.
• SafeWise: Ranks systems based on extensive testing, cost, features, and customer feedback, and explains their methodology.
• Security.org: Regularly updates rankings and reviews, focusing on both equipment and monitoring options.

These platforms evaluate ease of installation, reliability, smart home integration, monitoring response times, and overall value, helping you make an informed choice.

Common Mistakes and Things to Avoid That Attract Burglars

Burglars often look for easy opportunities. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Leaving doors and windows unlocked or without deadlocks.
• Not closing blinds or curtains at night, exposing valuables.
• Leaving expensive items visible from outside.
• Allowing mail or packages to pile up, signaling absence.
• Posting travel plans or holiday photos on social media while away.
• Leaving tools, ladders, or garden equipment outside, which can aid break-ins.
• Hiding spare keys in obvious places like under mats or plant pots.
• Not installing motion-activated lighting or visible security cameras.
• Neglecting garage and shed security.
• Failing to join neighborhood watch or get to know neighbors.

Best Places to Hide Valuables at Home

While no hiding spot is foolproof, creative and less obvious places can slow down burglars, who typically want to be in and out quickly:

• Safes: Use a heavy or bolted-down safe, ideally hidden in a wall, floor, or behind artwork.
• Attic or Loft: Hard-to-reach and time-consuming for burglars to search.
• False Bottom Drawers: Conceal valuables under a removable layer.
• Back of Drawers: Attach valuables to the back, out of plain sight.
• Food Containers: Hide small items in empty or sealed food boxes in the pantry.
• Old Paint Pots or Plumbing Pipes: Use cleaned-out containers or install fake pipes for storage.
• Inside Books or Bookcases: Hollow out a book or use a cluttered shelf.
• Under Stairs or in Unusual Rooms (e.g., children's room): Less likely to be searched.
• Freezer: Store valuables in waterproof containers hidden among frozen foods.

Avoid obvious spots like the master bedroom or bedside drawers, as these are the first places burglars check.

Key Features to Prevent Home Accidents

Home security is not just about intruders-preventing accidents is equally vital. Focus on these features and habits:

• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test regularly and replace batteries as needed.
• Secure Furniture and TVs: Anchor heavy items to walls to prevent tip-overs, especially in homes with children.
• Childproofing: Install safety gates on stairs, keep hazardous items (cleaners, medicines) locked away, and use cord safety devices on blinds.
• Proper Lighting: Ensure all walkways, stairs, and entrances are well-lit to prevent trips and falls.
• Slip and Trip Prevention: Use rug pads, tidy up cables, and keep floors clutter-free. Mop up spills immediately.
• Kitchen and Bathroom Safety: Keep pot handles turned in, test bath water temperature, and never leave children unattended near water or heat sources.
• Garden and Outdoor Safety: Supervise children, secure pools, and empty paddling pools after use.
• Emergency Preparedness: Have an escape plan, keep emergency numbers handy, and ensure everyone knows what to do in case of fire or other emergencies.