New homeowner here… how do I keep my family safe?

Security Systems & Alarms Forum
1

We just got our first home, and I want advice on making it safer from intruders.

The area is low-risk, but I know criminals go for easy targets. My plan is to make our home less appealing to them. I’ve started with cameras and motion-triggered floodlights, avoiding subscription services by using locally recording cameras with online live feed options.

Do you think alarms are important? Am I wrong not to get 24/7 monitoring? Also, any recommendations for non-lethal protection? Thanks for the tips.

2

Use something like this door lock for extra security while at home: Link.

Put separate cameras inside facing your main entrances.

Make sure your electric meter and internet cables outside are secure and locked. Get a battery backup for your internet and camera setup.

Good landscaping can force anyone sneaking around to walk into a camera’s view.

3

Look into Reolink cameras and maybe even something like claymore roombas (just kidding… or maybe not).

4

Q: Are alarms necessary?

A: Yes, they’re very useful. Cameras are great, but they might not wake you up at night or alert you if you’re distracted. Sirens, on the other hand, are loud enough to alert your neighbors and scare off criminals. Look into Yolink alarms—they’re reliable.

Q: Is skipping 24/7 monitoring a bad idea? Any non-lethal options?

A: You could skip a monitoring service if you get a PoE/IP camera system with 24/7 recording and an NVR. Reolink and high-end Dahua/Hikvision systems are solid choices.

As for non-lethal options, you might want an Umarex HDX 68 (40J version) or modify an Umarex HDR 50/68 for more power. But remember, less-lethal devices aren’t a replacement for a gun in serious situations. You’ll need a solid plan if you ever face a real threat.

5

@Chan
I don’t own a gun, and I’m leaning toward the Umarex HDX 68 instead. Having a firearm feels like a big step, especially with kids at home. Do you think this is a safer option, or could it still put my family at risk?

6

@West
Less lethal is safer in some ways, but you still need to store it securely, just like a firearm. It won’t kill someone, but it could still cause serious injury, like blindness, if used carelessly.

The downside is it might not stop someone on heavy drugs or an armed intruder. If you’re going for the HDX 68, get the 40J version—it’s much more effective.

7

You don’t need a subscription, but if you go that route, try a local company instead of a big-name brand.

Motion lights are great, and a few cameras help too. Don’t overdo it, though—you don’t want to look suspiciously secure compared to your neighbors. And don’t advertise owning guns. That info should stay private.

For extra security, consider:

  • Short decorative fences with sharp tops—no one wants to haul a TV over a fence.
  • Thorny plants like wild roses or cacti by windows.
  • Lock up your tools; criminals won’t bring their own ladder but will use yours if it’s lying around.
  • Secure sheds and garages, and reinforce doors connecting garages to your house.

Lastly, replace the screws in your door locks with longer ones. It’s a cheap, quick way to make doors harder to break through.

8

I’m heading to bed, but here’s everything we did after buying our home in 2019: Link. It’s been super helpful for us. We’re in a good neighborhood, but you never know…