5 Best Practices to Keep Your Home Safe

Home should be the one place where you feel completely safe and protected. Whether you’re home alone, away at work, or on vacation, peace of mind starts with knowing your property is secure. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t think about security until something happens. Taking a proactive approach to home safety can help prevent break-ins, protect valuables, and create a more comfortable living environment. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but incorporating a few key practices can make a big difference. From reinforcing doors and windows to upgrading your technology, even small changes can help you stay ahead of potential threats. Being thoughtful about your home’s security now can save you a lot of trouble later. In this post, we’ll walk you through five best practices to help you keep your home safe.

Install a Home Security System

A professionally installed or DIY home security system is one of the most effective ways to deter break-ins. Modern systems often include motion detectors, door and window sensors, alarms, and remote monitoring capabilities. These tools not only alert you in real time but also send a clear signal to potential intruders that your home is protected.

According to Forbes Home, 83% of would-be burglars look for security cameras before attempting a break-in, and 60% consider other targets when a security system is in place. That means simply having a visible system could be enough to redirect criminal activity away from your home. For even greater peace of mind, consider integrating your security system with your smartphone so you can monitor your property on the go.

Leading into that, an important complement to a security system is the thoughtful use of exterior lighting.

Use Strategic Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting is a simple yet highly effective safety measure. Well-lit entry points—such as your front porch, driveway, side yard, and back door—reduce the number of hiding spots for potential intruders. Motion-activated floodlights are particularly useful because they startle unwanted visitors and draw attention to suspicious activity.

In addition to deterring burglars, lighting makes it safer for your family and guests to navigate walkways and steps after dark. Opt for LED lighting where possible for energy efficiency and long-lasting performance. Smart lighting systems can also be scheduled or remotely controlled for better security when you’re away from home.

While lighting can help prevent crime, securing your doors and windows adds another critical layer of protection.

Reinforce Doors and Windows

Doors and windows are among the most common entry points during a break-in, which makes reinforcing them essential. Start by making sure all entry doors are solid core or metal, and upgrade to deadbolt locks if you haven’t already. Consider installing strike plates with long screws that reach the wall studs, increasing resistance to forced entry.

For windows, especially ground-level ones, apply security film to resist shattering or use pin locks to prevent them from being opened too far. Sliding glass doors should be fitted with a security bar or a track lock for additional stability.

Reinforced entry points may be harder to bypass, but don’t overlook the role that smart technology can play in home safety too.

Embrace Smart Home Technology

Smart home devices allow homeowners to monitor and control their property remotely, adding both convenience and security. Smart locks, doorbell cameras, motion sensors, and window alerts can all sync to your mobile phone, providing real-time updates and video footage when needed.

These tools make it easy to check whether you locked the door, closed the garage, or turned off the porch light. They’re also great for communicating with delivery drivers or visitors while you’re away. Combined with a traditional security system, smart technology gives you more control over who accesses your home and when.

With all these systems in place, it’s equally important to build good habits that make them more effective.

Practice Daily Home Security Habits

Even the best security equipment can’t do much without consistent use. Get in the habit of locking all doors and windows before leaving or going to bed, even if you’re just stepping out for a short time. Don’t leave spare keys in obvious places like under the doormat or in a flowerpot—these are the first spots burglars check.

Make your home look occupied when you’re away by using timers for lights and pausing mail or package deliveries. It’s also smart to avoid sharing vacation plans or daily routines on social media, which can unintentionally tip off would-be thieves.

By pairing strong routines with physical safeguards, you can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and keep your household safer.