What are some 'must-haves' for home defense? (Besides weapons)

Me and my girlfriend are moving into a house soon and I’m curious. I have plenty of weapons, but that’s a last resort. What other essentials should I consider for home defense?

Smoke and CO detectors, and a fire extinguisher that you know how to use.

Frankie said:
Smoke and CO detectors, and a fire extinguisher that you know how to use.

I think you mean CO. There’s already plenty of CO2 in the atmosphere!

Frankie said:
Smoke and CO detectors, and a fire extinguisher that you know how to use.

If you had a CO2 alarm, it would never stop going off. :laughing:

Cameras, motion lights, and an alarm system. If you’re inclined, consider getting a dog. Avoid traps, as they are illegal in most places. Also, invest in a good safe, not just a residential security container, if you have valuables you can’t afford to lose.

Bo said:
Good outdoor lighting, trimmed landscaping to eliminate hiding spots, and quality locks. Replace any old door hardware and check windows, screen doors, and fences for weaknesses.

My windows are terrible. Just yesterday, a windowpane flew out while I was cleaning. My doors are also in bad shape. My first step will be an alarm system.

@Skyler
If hardening your house isn’t practical, make it look less desirable to burglars. Visible cameras, lights on timers, and alarm signs can all deter criminals.

Strategically place several high-quality flashlights throughout the house. Fresh batteries are a must.

It depends on your neighborhood, but here are essentials:

  1. Good locks you always use.
  2. Motion detection lights.
  3. Cameras with motion capture and remote viewing.
  4. A disaster supply kit.
  5. Awareness of unusual activity in your area.

Get a good fire extinguisher and check it periodically. Mine fizzled out when I needed it during a grease fire.

Lexi said:
Get a good fire extinguisher and check it periodically. Mine fizzled out when I needed it during a grease fire.

Fire blankets are also great. They’re simple to use and don’t expire like extinguishers.

Layer your defenses:

  1. Fences and gates.
  2. Cameras and floodlights.
  3. Hostile plants like blackberry bushes.
  4. Reinforce doors with longer screws and better strike plates.
  5. Security film for windows.

A legit first-aid kit is a must. Keep one at home and another in your car.

Wyze cams are affordable and effective. You can monitor activity from your phone, and the pan models track movement automatically.

Comprehensive home safety includes:

  1. Smoke/CO detectors and fire extinguishers.
  2. Strong locks and window latches.
  3. Cameras and a doorbell camera.
  4. Emergency kits with water, food, and first-aid supplies.
  5. Build relationships with neighbors for mutual security.

Secure your home in layers:

  1. Alarm systems.
  2. Reinforced doors with 3-inch screws.
  3. Outdoor motion lights.
  4. Avoid oversharing on social media about absences.
  5. Consider getting a dog for added security and deterrence.

Have a plan for emergencies:

  1. An escape plan.
  2. Security cameras and lighting.
  3. Strong locks and 3-inch door screws.
  4. Secure weapons to prevent access by intruders.

Alarm system, security cameras, and an escape plan.

Use 3-inch screws for reinforcing door frames. Check out this video for more info: YouTube Link.

Cameras you can monitor from your phone and pets that act as alarms.