“Homes with home security systems are anywhere from 300% less likely to be burglarized,” the Urban Institute reports. That’s not a number it’s a life-saver for any single person. Feeling secure about your space is a peace that can change the way you sleep, relax, and vacation.
But come on: living alone makes each creak and shadow a little more magnified. The silver lining? Home security has come long, long way from clunky deadbolts and barking canines. Today’s smart, affordable hacks are one step ahead of the burglars, without dissuading break-ins and regaining their sense of security without breaking the bank or punching holes in the wall. Let’s secure your home, one smart hack at a time.
1. Motion Sensors: Your MVP of Defense
Solo dwellers, not having a sense of when someone is heading toward your doorway isn’t going to cut it. String bells are so last century, though, with the smart motion sensors being the true MVPs. You can get a weather-resistant sensor and hub for about $35, and it sends you instant notifications when someone’s coming your way no roommate or pet problems involved. Position them at strategic locations, such as in front of the main entrance or longer corridor, and appreciate the extra security. As Great Valley Lockshop experts note, door sensors and motion detectors monitor all the time and are a good deterrent to would-be burglars (door sensors and motion detectors monitor all the time).
2. Portable Door Locks: Quick Room-by-Room Security
A little extra security goes a long way sometimes. Door locks that are portable are every renter’s best friend they provide serious hold on any non-deadbolt door, from bedrooms to short-term Airbnb rentals. They’re cheap (test a two-pack for $16) and don’t demand installation knowledge. And if you feel like getting fancy, app-controlled smart locks allow you to track and adjust access codes in real-time so no one can sneak in under the radar. Smart locks and deadbolt locks are 49 times more effective at deterring burglars as indicated by research from Nottingham Trent University (49 times more effective at keeping burglars away).
3. Portable Security Cams: Eyes Where You Need Them
Nothing beats a camera watching out over dark alleys or the back yard at midnight. Portable, wireless security cameras such as the Google Nest or Ring Stick Up Cam are simple to relocate and place where you are most exposed. They operate in and out, bestowing on you liberty and autonomy. According to a U.S. News & World Report survey, 90% consider security cameras to deter crime, and 96% are safer because they have security cameras in the neighborhood (90% consider security cameras to deter crime).
4. Video Doorbells: View and Voice Before Opening
A video doorbell is the front-door caller ID. It allows you to see who’s there, talk to guests remotely, and even activate sirens or recorded messages when suspicious activity is detected. Some models identify familiar faces and inform you of strangers, providing you with a smart security bonus. Remember that most video doorbells require a subscription or microSD card to capture video. 83% of burglars attempt to check if a house has an alarm system prior to a burglary, Great Valley Lockshop has reported (83% of burglars attempt to find out if a house has).
5. Intelligent Lighting: Mislead Burglars with Tricks Intruders love black, empty homes.
That is the reason why smart bulbs and LED floodlights are an essential for single residents. Set your lights to turn on at scheduled times even when you’re not home to make it look like people are coming and going. This simple trick can make your place seem lively and occupied, which is a huge deterrent. Smart bulbs are inexpensive and have regular sockets, so it won’t be a problem to upgrade your lighting game. Timed lighting, window locks, and deadbolts make a tried and tested multi-layered defense (timed lighting, window locks, and deadbolts).
6. Passwords and Codes: Digital Security is Important Too
Physical security is important, but don’t forget about your digital defenses. When alone in the house, particularly after a roommate or relationship change, change passwords on your Wi-Fi, security programs, smart door locks, and garage gates. This easy precaution shuts down electronic loopholes someone who had been accessing may try to exploit. The FBI reports that homes with no security systems are up to 300% more likely to be broken into (homes with no security systems are up to 300% more likely to be broken into).
7. Emergency Tools: Pepper Spray and Panic Buttons
Sometimes peace of mind is just having backup in your pocket. Keychain pepper spray is compact, cheap, and easy to grab in an emergency. For total reassurance, have a panic button on hand such devices can send an alert to the responders or your preferred contacts instantly if you are ever in harm’s way. With most contemporary systems, such as Alexa Emergency Assist, you can even summon help without having to lift your hands. As SafeHome indicates, 74% of customers install home security systems to boost their overall sense of safety (74% of consumers install home security systems to enhance their overall sense of safety).
Alone does not necessarily mean vulnerable. With some smart shortcuts from motion sensors to smartphone cameras and panic alarms any home occupant can build a home that’s secure but remarkably intimate. The bonus? These shortcuts not only keep intruders out they invite reassurance, improved sleep, and the ability to savor every moment of your life in your home. Safety, in fact, is the key to living well.
