If you read the news, it’s probably normal for you to feel overwhelmed by how much insecurity there is. Research shows that, on average, over one million home burglaries happen annually in the US. 

That’s why we must create our haven and find refuge in our spaces. 

We’ve gathered five strategies that will help you feel safe at home in smart ways. 

1. Get Some Smart Lights And Set Them Up

Smart lights can be a great tool for your security needs. You can get motion-activated lightbulbs, which will help you save money on utilities and surprise potential intruders. 

This works even better for the darkest months of the year because that’s the peak for burglaries, which makes a lot of sense. Pick strategic spots to set up your lights and sleep tight, knowing that you’re safe. 

2. Fake Security Cameras

Not all of us have the budget to acquire a security system, cameras included. Burglars cannot tell the difference either, but it’s good to pretend that we have cameras outside. Install them at a moment when a lot of people go by, and make sure that they’re realistic looking. 

Rest assured: thieves like easy targets, not complicated spots to rob. If they think you’ve got cameras, they probably will quit and go somewhere else entirely. 

For an even more believable front, you can print the logo of reputable security companies and put little signs around, for example, at your back or front doors. This will give the impression that you have a sophisticated security system.

3. Make Sure Your Doors And Windows Are In A Great State

Reinforce doors and windows and potential entry points. The goal here is to make it harder for criminals to get into your house, whatever means necessary. We’re not talking about open confrontation but rather prevention, which is always ideal. 

For this, you can:

•  Invest in a good-quality lock or deadbolt. 
•  Save money and get a real security system with cameras and programmable alarms that you can connect to your phone. 
•  Encourage your neighbors and create a neighborhood watch program, which can build a better community and make everyone feel safer.

4. Take Advantage Of The Landscape 

You can strategically plan your garden to be a natural defense against burglaries. For example, you can trim the overgrown bushes from time to time, which will stop the plants from becoming a great hiding point for criminals. You can even plant thorny bushes or climbing plants to discourage people from trying to get into your house. 

This way, you’ll blend both aesthetics and security. This can seem like a very low effort, but the results are great. Combined with motion-activation lights, you’re investing in your peace of mind with a great strategy.

5. Don’t Forget About Your Online Presence

We’re dominated by smart devices: from our phones to our fridges, anything can connect to the internet. This is why cybersecurity has become so crucial nowadays. People can figure out your routines from your Instagram stories alone, so it’s good to understand how to protect ourselves in the digital realm. 

Here’s what you can do, especially with IoT devices: 

•  Make up strong passwords for devices like smart cameras. This will keep you safe in case someone wants to hack your security system.
•  Update the software from time to time to make sure that you have the latest security patches. 
•  If you have IoT devices, create a separate network in your home network so that this data doesn’t get mixed with your main network. 
•  Enable two-factor authentication to prevent hackers from accessing all your accounts. 
•  Make sure to review the list of connected devices and disconnect those that seem suspicious. If somebody accessed your network, this simple measure can prevent them from stealing your data. 
•  Invest in a strong firewall to monitor your online activity. 
•  Get a VPN and protect your network and devices by taking advantage of their encryption services. Hackers, like burglars, get easily discouraged when their target knows what they’re doing. Get an information source and do your research before selecting a VPN so that you know you can count on the company you’ve purchased the software from.

To Sum Up

As you start to make your home safer, you need to understand that this isn’t something permanent. You will have to learn more and update over time since criminals tend to get creative.

Combine technology, old strategies, and smart solutions to find what works best for you. Stay safe out there, both in the digital world and the real one.