Hey all! I’m new here and looking for advice on the best ways to secure my home and deter trespassers. My neighborhood’s always had some issues, but it’s been getting worse recently. We’re near downtown in a historic area, and lately, there’s been a lot more trespassing and attempted break-ins, especially with a vacant lot next door that seems to be attracting trouble.
Just today, I had to chase off a guy who was trying to break into my elderly neighbor’s place, and tonight someone tried to steal a bike from my other neighbor’s backyard. I’ve been keeping an eye on things from my upstairs window and trying to run people off, but it feels like I need something more effective. I’ve got floodlights and a loud presence, but I’m considering taking gun safety classes and upping the security measures.
Winter said:
Big dogs tend to scare most people off.
True, but not everyone can or wants to take care of a big dog. It’s not a solution for everyone.
I get it. A stray found me, and while I can’t really afford him, he does make me feel safer. People think twice when they see him, and that’s worth a lot for me.
@Piper
Dogs are definitely a deterrent, but cameras or alarms can do the job too. You could even have your cameras play barking sounds if you wanted. And if things get serious, a firearm might be a better defense than a dog.
Sounds like you’re doing a good job keeping it from taking root. Some suggestions: high-quality cameras that clearly show faces, reinforced doors with long screws in the hinges and striker plates, and talking to neighbors to organize some kind of watch or alert system. Document incidents by calling the cops regularly.
Gun safety classes are great, but keep in mind that being the ‘big loud dude’ and carrying a gun might not mix well in terms of self-defense laws. You don’t want to come across as the aggressor, so walk softly while carrying that big stick. Stay safe!
Gun safety classes are a solid idea—you never know who you’re dealing with. Some of these folks may have stolen firearms. Motion-activated lights help, but so do cameras. Even if no one’s home, cameras can capture evidence, which helps with insurance.
For the vacant lot, you could use hunting scents like skunk or fox urine to make it less appealing, or sprinkle bird seed to attract birds—might help deter people.
Francis said:
For the vacant lot, you could use hunting scents like skunk or fox urine to make it less appealing, or sprinkle bird seed to attract birds—might help deter people.
Fox urine smells terrible. Just make sure to refresh it regularly. Let nature do the work!
Get a firearm, take safety classes, and hit the range weekly. Confrontations could escalate, so be prepared. Also, consider night vision cameras and possibly razor wire on fences, though be cautious with anything that could be seen as a ‘booby trap.’
Paris said: @Blane
Careful about setting traps—it’s illegal in many places, and you could be sued if someone gets hurt, even if they’re trespassing.
Razor blades on fences aren’t booby traps. They’re like razor wire but without the wire part. Not illegal, cheap, and can be effective. Got any other deterrent ideas?