How to Protect a Home Cheaply

Protecting your home is one of the most important things you can do for the safety of your family and possessions. Turn this goal into a home project by implementing several or all of these techniques.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Security system
• Security system sign
• Sliding glass door locks
• Motion sensors
• Dog

1. Install a Security System
   
   Scour the ads for a deal on a security system. Monitoring is ideal, but since alarm monitoring costs anywhere from $30-$100 a month for most systems, consider opting out. Should someone break in, the alarm will still sound but the authorities will not be notified.

2. Place Security System Signs
   
   Deter intruders by placing security system signs or by applying decals near or on all exterior doors and windows of your home - particularly on the first floor. These can be found at home-improvement stores and will advertise that your home is protected by a security system, even if it's not.

3. Affix Sliding Glass Door Locks
   
   Install sliding glass door locks on your sliding glass doors to prevent intruders from sliding the door open. These home protection devices are pin-operated and, when locked, will prevent the door from moving.

4. Install Motion Detectors
   
   Protect your home by using exterior motion detectors. Movement will trigger the sensor - which can be installed on coach lamps or flood lights or anything in between - to illuminate the area and ward off suspicious activity.

5. Get a Dog
   
   Purchase or adopt a guard dog to help protect your home. Most people would argue that owning a pet can be expensive and therefore not a frugal home protection choice, but while paying for protection you also get endless love, attention and companionship. It may just be the ultimate return on investment!

Tips & Warnings

• Implement multiple methods to ensure your home is as protected as possible.

Resources

• eHow Home and Garden Topic Guide

[edwardvance]

on 11/26/2009 Excellent article on protecting a home cheaply. 5* and I recommend.

[lilmisstrouble]

on 8/23/2009 good article! I have a dog... But the dog is annoying =(.

[godfather25]

on 7/23/2009 Great suggestions on protecting a home cheaply.

[mommyhen42]

on 7/22/2009 great suggestions I have 2 large German Shepherds both would kiss you to death if I am outside but eat you if I am not. And you are right, what you also receive in return is well worth the investment. And you can claim them on your taxes as a security system so this also saves you money! I claimed the purchase price and claim vet bills, their medical insurance and food costs, the deduction you receive does not cover those costs but it does help

[sonni57]

on 7/21/2009 Good suggestions on protecting a home for less it pays to be safe.