What’s the best home security tip that made you think, “Wow, I never considered that”?

Security Systems & Alarms Forum
1

Hey all,

I’m digging into home security and trying to get past the usual advice to find something truly useful. There’s so much out there—YouTube, blogs, this forum, and all kinds of stuff.

So what’s the best advice or resource you found that gave you an “aha” moment? Maybe it’s a little-known tip, a security gap you hadn’t thought of, or just a clever idea that goes beyond the basics. I’d love any recommendations you have that aren’t just the usual stuff.

Thanks in advance for sharing!

2

Keep it simple:

Lock your doors, good outdoor lighting, maybe a dog, and a way to protect yourself. That covers most of it.

Not everyone wants a dog or other protection, but a locked-up home with lights to keep people visible deters most folks. But if someone really wants to get in, they’re going to try, which is why I think having protection is a smart idea.

3

@Van
Totally agree.

I added cameras after an ex went a little nuts. I wanted the ability to keep an eye on things, especially after a window got broken. Cameras helped me feel more secure when I’m away.

4

This article really changed how I think about outdoor lighting: https://darksky.org/resources/what-is-light-pollution/effects/safety/

It also helps with reducing light pollution, which is something I’m pretty aware of.

5

@Orin
Interesting article! I wish they’d looked into motion-activated lights too.

6

@Orin
Wow, I honestly hadn’t thought about that side of lighting! Thanks for sharing.

7

I took control of my own security setup with Home Assistant. It’s really been a game-changer.

8

Someone on here once explained home security as a series of layers, and that got me to rethink my whole setup. Basically, it’s about having different layers of protection so that if one layer is bypassed, others are still there. It’s a solid approach to think about security in any situation.

9

@Nash
That’s interesting! Do you have any examples of what these layers look like?

10

Teo said:
@Nash
That’s interesting! Do you have any examples of what these layers look like?

Sure, I set up layers at home, and it really helps. For instance, in terms of access:

I have a gate by the sidewalk—first layer. To reach the house, someone has to go past that gate. Between the gate and my front door, I have motion detectors in two zones: far and near. When both zones chime, I know someone’s coming closer.

The side gate is another layer. They’d have to get past a 6-foot tall inner gate. Then, if they try to break a window, it’s not easy since my windows are 5 feet up and have security film that keeps them reinforced.

The goal here is to delay any intruder so I have time to react or call for help. That’s just one example. You can also think of layers with visibility (clear sightlines), obstacles (like cactus under windows), and notifying both the intruder (visible cameras, warning signs) and the residents (alarms, live feeds).

11

@Ben
What kind of motion alarms are you using? I’ve wanted something straightforward that doesn’t need a full security subscription.

12

Deep Sentinel is awesome.

Their cameras recognize people in restricted zones and times, then a human agent reviews it live. They can even talk to the person through the camera and tell them to back off or sound an alarm.

They have a YouTube channel if you want to see it in action.

13

@Denny
Here are some things to know:

  • The contract is pricey, and there’s a $1200 fee to end it early.
  • No Alexa or Google integration, and it’s camera-only (no sensors), so you might need a lot of cameras.
  • They can store your video and audio and might contact authorities if they think something is off.
  • If you move before your contract’s up, you’re still legally bound by it and could face that fee.
  • Updates aren’t always free, so if you want new features, you might have to pay extra.

Here’s the full user agreement if you’re interested: End User Terms of Service - Deep Sentinel.