12 Simple Ways to Make Your Home Safer & Keep Burglars Away

Feeling safe at home is something we all want, but protecting your space doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. There are plenty of small, practical steps you can take right away that make a big difference. From basic improvements to easy-to-use tools, these 12 home security ideas will help you secure your home and give you peace of mind.

1. Upgrade Your Door Locks

Your front door is a primary entry point for intruders, so a strong lock is crucial. Old or worn-out locks are easier to bypass than most people realize. Installing high-quality deadbolts or modern smart locks adds significant protection, and even small upgrades—like replacing short screws in your strike plate with longer ones—can greatly strengthen your door frame.

• Install high-quality deadbolts or smart locks on exterior doors.
• Replace short screws in strike plates with longer ones for added strength.
• Secure interior doors like bedrooms and offices to reinforce overall home security.

2. Use a Portable Door Alarm

Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most effective. That’s where Alert Guard Pro comes in. This portable door alarm instantly secures your doors without any permanent installation. It’s perfect for bedrooms, apartments, and even travel—so whether you’re at home or on the road, you can have peace of mind.

Setup is easy: just place it under the door, and it acts as both a stopper and an alarm. If anyone tries to enter, it emits a loud alert, giving you crucial seconds to respond. Its discreet design means it won’t draw attention until it’s needed, and its portability makes it versatile—take it to a hotel room, Airbnb, or anywhere you need extra protection. You don’t need to be a security expert to use it, which makes it a practical addition to any home.

3. Add Motion Sensor Lights

Dark, shadowy areas around your home are attractive to intruders. Motion-activated lights not only illuminate these spots but also serve as a deterrent. Place them near doors, driveways, and walkways. Even solar-powered lights are effective and don’t increase your energy bill.

Think about your own routine—coming home after work at night or letting your kids walk to the car. Motion lights make it safer and more comfortable while adding a layer of security

• Install high-quality deadbolts or smart locks on exterior doors.
• Replace short screws in strike plates with longer ones for added strength.
• Secure interior doors like bedrooms and offices to reinforce overall home security.

4. Secure Windows with Locks or Sensors

Windows are a surprisingly common point of entry. Make sure all accessible windows, especially on the ground floor, have sturdy locks. Adding window sensors or alarms provides extra protection by alerting you if a window is tampered with.

• Ensure all accessible windows, especially on the ground floor, have strong locks.
• Add sensors or alarms to alert you of tampering.
• Reinforcing frames or adding secondary locks increases security.

5. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

It’s simple but important: don’t leave expensive items where they can be seen from outside. Electronics, jewelry, or cash near windows make your home an easy target.

• Avoid leaving electronics, jewelry, or cash near windows.
• Use blinds, curtains, or secure storage to reduce temptation for burglars.

6. Use a Peephole or Doorbell Camera

Being able to see who is at your door before opening it is essential. A peephole is a simple, low-cost solution, while a video doorbell gives you even more control. Many models allow remote communication, so you can speak with visitors from your phone or tablet, even if you’re not at home.

• Screen visitors safely before opening the door.
• Video doorbells allow remote communication and monitoring of packages.

7. Trim Landscaping for Visibility

Overgrown shrubs and trees near windows or doors provide easy hiding spots for intruders. Keep plants trimmed and maintain clear sightlines around entrances.

• Keep shrubs and trees near doors and windows trimmed.
• Clear sightlines reduce hiding spots for intruders while improving curb appeal.

8. Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Home safety isn’t only about preventing break-ins. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors protect your family from fire and gas emergencies. Place them in bedrooms, hallways, and kitchens, and test them regularly to ensure they’re functioning.

• Place detectors in bedrooms, hallways, and kitchens.
• Test regularly to ensure proper function; consider smart detectors for alerts when away.

9. Reinforce Sliding Doors

Sliding glass doors are convenient but can be a weak point if left unprotected. Installing a security bar or rod in the door track prevents forced entry.

• Place detectors in bedrooms, hallways, and kitchens.
• Test regularly to ensure proper function; consider smart detectors for alerts when away.

10. Create the Illusion of Occupancy

Empty homes are more likely to be targeted. Using timers for lights, TVs, or radios can make it look like someone is home, reducing the likelihood of a break-in.

• Use timers for lights, TVs, or radios when away.
• Smart home systems can simulate activity to make your home appear occupied.

11. Keep Entryways Well-Lit

A well-lit entrance is both practical and a deterrent. Dark areas encourage intruders, while illuminated doors, garages, and pathways make your home appear active and monitored.

• Install motion-sensing or energy-efficient LED lights near doors, garages, and pathways.
• Well-lit areas deter criminals and make it safer to enter your home at night.

12. Establish a Safe Routine

• Lock doors and windows, activate alarms, and store keys securely every day.
• Combine these habits with Alert Guard Pro for instant alerts and consistent protection.

Enhancing your home security doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. By taking practical steps—like upgrading locks, securing windows, adding motion-sensor lighting, and using reliable tools such as Alert Guard Pro—you can protect your home, valuables, and loved ones.

Consistency is key. Establish daily routines, reinforce entry points, and use smart security tools to create a safer, more secure environment. Implementing even a few of these strategies today can significantly improve your home security and give you peace of mind knowing your home is better protected against potential threats.