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If you are looking for ideas on DIY home security that will give you comfort during times of emergencies or just everyday peace of mind here are some inexpensive ways to start.
It’s no secret that security is something we all want in our life. We want something to make our home feel more comfortable and safe; work to protect the items we work hard for and protect those that we love and cherish.
There are some security systems available that don’t cost an arm and a leg, however, those often come with a monthly fee for monitoring.
DIY Home Security Ideas for Preppers
Here are a few ideas on things you can do NOW that make a difference for your own safety. You might want to look into this more in depth as you feel concerns about things really starting to go over the tipping point for a SHTF situation and you know you will be sheltering in place.
You can have all the food, water, and medical supplies you want, but you need to keep them for yourself – not as fodder for the looters who may be desperate.
Home Security Signs:
One of the most simple and least expensive steps towards DIY home security is a home security sign. Some options would include; Nothing inside is worth dying for.
This gives intruders a warning there may be a gun waiting for them when they get inside. Other options include Beware of Dog signs and home alarm system signs.
Door Jams:
Installing a simple door jam to sliding glass doors will provide a delay if you are in the middle of a home invasion. You could also place a 2×4 between a door and a wall to deter a forced entry.
The nice thing about door jams is that there is no installation and they are small and discreet so no one will ever notice you have one.
Sliding Glass Doors:
Sliding glass doors are another thing – Why are Sliding Doors So Vulnerable? Sliding glass doors are use latches, not locks. That is why you see everyone put a
“stick” in the track behind them when they are closed. Some sticks are wooden, some metal – those are referred to as “blocking bars”.
There are a few different things you can do to enhance that security:
Apply shatterproof film.
The door is glass – right? What is to stop a desperate person from just grabbing a hammer or other similar tool and smashing through the glass? You can pick transparent or tinted film and now you can prevent burglars from making quick entry by breaking your door’s glass.
I like BuyDecorativeFilm (BDF)
Protect your lifestyle from unwanted damages with Buydecorativefilm’s Clear Security and Safety 8 Mil S8MC window film. Its 8 mil thickness allows the film to serve as a protective layer once applied to your window.
The S8MC can absorb impact from break-in attempts and hold shattered glass together in case of breakage while remaining virtually clear and transparent so that you won’t even know it’s there.
Bonus perks? It will also help prevent breakage from flying debris as you get with a hurricane or tornado – within reason.
Install a Security Pin
This is hands down a very thrifty way to solve the problem – seriously, we found this great security pin on Amazon for under four bucks.
This locking pin is constructed from case-hardened steel and comes plated in chrome. The pin stores in its holder when unlocked and locks into the retaining ring when engaged. Securely locks your door in a closed or ventilating position.
With your sliding door securely closed, you simply drill a hole through the frame of the door that slides and into the frame of the stationary door. The pin will hold the two doors together and prevent them from being slid open.
One of the most simple and least expensive steps towards DIY home security is a home security sign. Some options would include; Nothing inside is worth dying for.
This gives intruders a warning there may be a gun waiting for them when they get inside. Other options include Beware of Dog signs and home alarm system signs.
The S8MC can absorb impact from break-in attempts and hold shattered glass together in case of breakage while remaining virtually clear and transparent so that you won’t even know it’s there.
Bonus perks? It will also help prevent breakage from flying debris as you get with a hurricane or tornado – within reason.
The pin does not screw or lock into the hole…it slides into three drilled holes through the decorative guide . Two holes are drilled through interior door frame. One hole is drilled on inside edge of exterior door frame.
Personal Protection:
Be sure you have something you can use as personal protection should a home invasion occur. If you are not keen on having guns around keep in mind there are many ways you can secure your guns so that they are safe, yet still accessible should the need arise where you need them.
I prefer the Secure It Gun Storage – and they currently have a great offer:
Secure It Gun Storage BUY NOW PAY LATER – No minimum spend is requiredApplies sitewide “4 Interest-Free Payments” Financing available upon approval Shop NowWHY do I like them? Well – hubby is NOT a fan of a gun in the house. At. All. Contrasting that is me – a Desert Storm Vet who is used to handling a weapon. The compromise is secure storage so it is there if we need it, but not accessible to kids or visitors that don’t really know how to handle it.
ANY tool is a good tool for defense, if you know how to take care of it and store it properly.
It’s also a great idea to keep a can of mace and know how to use it.
Use Your Car Alarm:
This is a super simple technique but it will work. If you have a car with an alarm on it be sure to keep your key fob with you or on your nightstand. If your home is bring broken into hit the panic button on your key fob.
This will be very loud and bring attention to the area, likely sending the invaders on the run.
DIY Home Security System:
Last but not least is to think of purchasing a simple DIY home security system. There are some on the market that are simple to set up and you do not have to be under any contract for monitoring. These are great because they work just like those that are under monitoring contracts giving you peace of mind without the added cost if you are budget conscious.
A home invasion is very scary and I hope it’s something none of us ever have to face however taking a few simple DIY home security steps just may save your life and the lives of those you cherish most.