Discover how to protect your home against burglaries, intruders, or fires with these 10 clear, useful, and easy-to-apply home security tips you can start using today.
Nobody wants to find out too late that their home wasn’t properly protected. Here are 10 ways to safeguard it without complications or major expenses.
Why is it important to strengthen home security today? Because we want to feel safe and protected within our own walls. Fortunately, there are many measures you can take to keep your home well protected. In this article, we share with you important tips and tricks on how to safeguard your home and ensure your family’s safety.
In terms of safety and protection, living in an apartment is not the same as living in a single-family house. Nor is it the same to live in the city center as it is to live in an isolated home on the outskirts.
The vulnerable points of our home are also not the same if we live on the ground floor as if we are on the sixth floor; if we have a terrace, a private garage, and so on. However, there are a series of guidelines and tips that everyone can follow, and that can be useful in all situations. Here are ten of the most important ones.
1. Keep your doors strong, secure, and always locked
It may sound obvious, but that doesn’t make it any less essential. A door locked with the deadbolt is much safer than one left only on the latch (which is quite easy to open). Whether you are at home or not, always lock your door with the key to increase home security — it’s a simple and easy habit that greatly increases your security.
Make sure all the exterior doors of your home are made of sturdy materials, are in good condition, and do not need repairs. Also check that they have secure locks.
Consider installing reinforced door locks or high-security cylinder locks to increase your home security and protection.
2. Install smart locks
Real-time monitoring, smart incident detection, and efficient response management for better home security.
Smart locks are a modern alternative to traditional keys to protect your home. They let you lock and unlock your doors using your smartphone or tablet through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. This means you can manage access to your home remotely, decide who can enter, and feel more secure whether you’re inside or away.
A key benefit of smart locks is the flexibility to control who enters your home and when. Instead of handing out physical keys, you can create temporary digital codes for family members, friends, or delivery drivers. These codes only work during the time you decide, which makes access safer and more convenient. On top of that, smart locks send real-time notifications every time someone opens or closes the door, so you always know what’s happening at home. This combination of control, visibility, and peace of mind makes them one of the most practical modern home security tools.
Another great advantage of smart locks is that they can be fully integrated with your home security system and smart home devices. You can link them to your alarm system so that when you open or close the door, the alarm arms or disarms automatically. Plus, with voice assistants such as Alexa or Google Assistant, you can lock or unlock the door just by speaking. This kind of integration makes managing home access effortless and turns smart locks into a central piece of your overall home security and smart home experience.
It’s important to note that smart locks don’t just offer convenience — they also provide a high level of security. Most modern models use advanced encryption to secure communication between the lock and your devices, and many also add two-factor authentication for extra protection. Some even go further with intruder detection features: if someone tries the wrong code too many times, the lock can sound an alarm or block further attempts automatically. These layers of defense make smart locks not only practical but also a trustworthy way to improve your overall home security.
Before buying a smart lock, take time to research and compare different brands and models. Read customer reviews and check key features such as compatibility with your smartphone, the type of power supply (battery-powered or wired), and the lock’s resistance to forced entry or hacking attempts. Choosing the right model ensures your smart lock will be both reliable and effective in improving your home security.
Click here to learn more about smart locks and how they can be combined with alarms, cameras, and other smart devices to create a complete home security setup.
3. Strengthen your windows
Burglars don’t just target doors — windows are one of the easiest and most common ways they try to get inside, particularly in single-family houses. Fortunately, there are specific window locks and security devices that can greatly improve your home security and help prevent break-ins.
Burglars don’t just target doors — windows are one of the easiest and most common ways they try to get inside, particularly in single-family houses. Fortunately, there are specific window locks and security devices that can greatly improve your home security and help prevent break-ins.
You can choose window locks that fit on the inside and add an extra layer of protection. These devices, often sliding locks or blocking locks, make it much harder for intruders to force the window open from the outside.
You can add security latches that let your windows open just enough for ventilation while still keeping them secure. There are also window blocking devices that fit onto the window tracks, preventing intruders from forcing them open from outside.
Another proven way to secure windows is by adding security bars. Made from tough materials like wrought iron or heavy-duty aluminum, they create a strong physical barrier that makes it almost impossible for intruders to get inside through a window. Still, safety goes both ways: it’s important to check that any bars you install meet legal standards and allow for emergency exits.
One of the strongest upgrades you can make to vulnerable windows is replacing standard panes with reinforced or even armored glass to the most vulnerable windows in your home, such as ground-level windows or those in isolated areas. Reinforced glass is designed to withstand far more pressure, making it extremely hard for an intruder to smash. Installing this kind of glass gives you an extra layer of protection, turning windows from a weak spot into a real security barrier.
4. Keep your home well-lit
Good exterior lighting is one of the simplest way to protect your home and most effective deterrents against intruders. Place outdoor security lights at entrances, gardens, and other vulnerable areas to keep them well-lit at night. Bright illumination reduces the risk of break-ins by making your home less appealing to burglars, who feel exposed when there are no dark hiding spots.
Another excellent option is to install motion sensor lights. These smart lights turn on the moment they detect movement, which often startles potential intruders and alert nearby neighbors. Motion-activated lighting is an affordable upgrade that adds both convenience and an extra layer of protection to your home.
5. Do not leave signs that you are away
Cuando estés fuera de casa durante períodos prolongados, es importante que no dejes rastros de tu ausencia. Pide a alguien de confianza que recoja el correo postal regularmente o mantenga el jardín más o menos arreglado. Un buzón lleno o un jardín descuidado pueden dar la impresión de que la casa está vacía y atraer la atención de posibles ladrones.
When you’re away from home for an extended time, avoid leaving signs that your house is unoccupied. Ask a trusted person to pick up your mail regularly or keep your garden maintained. An overflowing mailbox or an untended yard can easily reveal your absence and make your home a more obvious target for burglars. These simple steps make your home appear occupied, reducing the chances of drawing unwanted attention.
You can also automate lights and devices to make them turn on and off, so your home looks lived-in while you are away. Timer switches and smart plugs are inexpensive and easy to use. With them, you can schedule lamps, TVs and other appliances to switch on and off at different times and different days to simulate daily activity. Making your home appear lived-in is an effective security tactic that helps deter burglars. Empty properties are the ones thieves notice first, so these small automations can make a real difference.
Just like physical precautions, being smart with what you share online is critical for protecting your home. Posting your address, your daily schedule, or your vacation plans can give burglars the exact clues they need.
Public profiles on social media make it even easier for them. If you’re away on holiday, a good rule is to wait until you return before sharing pictures or updates—and let people know you’re back home. That way, you avoid signaling that your house is empty.
Think carefully about who can see your information. Use privacy settings so only trusted friends and family can access personal details. By treating your privacy as part of your overall security, you make it harder for intruders to plan and easier to keep both your family and your home safe.
Also, avoid giving away detailed information about your house or its residents to strangers or in public spaces where you could be overheard. Burglars often use this type of information to plan robberies when they know a home is empty. Keeping your data private is a key part of digital security.
6. Install a sound alarm
Consider installing a siren or sound alarm system to increase your home security. These devices emit loud, piercing sounds to warn of intruders, emergencies, or potential threats. Modern sirens can be set to trigger not just if someone breaks in, but also if smoke, heat, or dangerous gases like carbon monoxide are detected. That way, the system protects you from more than just burglary.
The simple presence of a loud alarm can act as a powerful deterrent against burglars, since criminals usually target easy, unprotected homes. The sudden, high-pitched sound can surprise and scare off intruders before they gain entry.
An alarm’s strong audible alert can also reach neighbors and people nearby, ensuring that others are aware of the emergency. For even greater protection, you can connect your system to a professional monitoring service, an Alarm Receiving Center (ARC), which can dispatch immediate assistance if needed.
7. Keep common security elements in good condition
The intercom or video door phone is a key element in home security, as it allows you to communicate with and identify visitors before granting them access.
Verifica su estado regularmente: realiza inspecciones periódicas del portero electrónico para asegurarte de que está en buen estado de funcionamiento. Comprueba si los botones de llamada y las unidades del interfono funcionan correctamente y si el sonido y la imagen (en caso de que la haya) tienen la calidad necesaria. En caso de detectar algún problema, asegúrate de realizar las reparaciones o mantenimiento necesarios lo antes posible.
To keep it effective, perform regular intercom inspections, check it regularly. Test the call buttons, sound, and—if applicable—the video feed to make sure everything is working properly. If you notice any issue, fix it right away. Small issues can become big security gaps if ignored.
Building security also depends on how residents use the system. Remind your neighbors to always identify visitors before letting them in and never allow strangers to enter without confirmation—even if they claim to be delivery drivers or maintenance workers. Encourage a culture of security among residents so the intercom becomes a reliable line of defense and part of a culture of safety in the building.
8. Install a home safe
A home safe is an excellent extra layer of home security for protecting valuables and important documents. Choose a strong safe and install it in a discreet location of your home. Use it to keep jewelry, passports, IDs, cash, and other valuables safe from theft. For maximum protection, make sure the safe is anchored to the floor or wall so it cannot be easily removed.
Today there are safes of all sizes and prices, making them an affordable and practical security solution for any household and to protect your belongings.
Want to learn more about choosing the right safe for your home? Click here.
9. Have a fire extinguisher and a fire blanket
Having a fire extinguisher and/or a fire blanket at home can make the difference between a scare and a tragedy. These devices allow you to act quickly in the first seconds of a fire, which are crucial. They help to extinguish small fires before they spread and become uncontrollable.
They are easy to use, take up little space, and can save lives. Adding them to your home is one of the most affordable and effective fire prevention measures you can take.
Click here to learn step by step how to use a fire extinguisher.
10. use security cameras
Home security cameras are one of the most effective tools for protecting your property and ensuring peace of mind. Installing them can help prevent burglaries, provide evidence in case of incidents, and serve as a strong deterrent against intruders.
The mere visible presence of security cameras can act as a strong deterrent for intruders, and they are useful for monitoring both indoors and outdoors areas of your home, such as gardens, entrances, or garages.
Criminals are less likely to commit robberies when they know they are being watched, so seeing your cameras can make them give up on trying to enter your home. Make sure they are placed in strategic locations.
Modern security camera systems also allow for real-time monitoring. With your smartphone or tablet, you can check on your home anytime, anywhere, which is especially useful when traveling or away for long periods. This makes it easy to detect suspicious activity right away.
Another advantage is the ability to monitor pets, children, or elderly family members, and even interact with them through two-way audio cameras.
This same audio feature lets you speak directly with visitors and decide whether to grant access, functioning as an access control system.
When selecting a camera, choose a reliable model with the right resolution, storage capacity, weather resistance, and smart integration with your mobile devices and home security system.
Finally, keep your cameras updated with secure passwords and perform regular maintenance (like cleaning the lenses and checking functionality) to ensure they work effectively at all times.
Beyond applying these 10 home security tips, it’s also important to build a strong relationship with your neighbors and community. Sharing information about suspicious activity, reinforcing locks in shared areas, and improving lighting in common spaces are simple steps that strengthen everyone’s security.
For faster communication, consider creating a neighborhood security chat group to alert each other quickly if needed.
For added peace of mind, you may also want to hire a private security company.
If your alarm system is connected to a professional Alarm Receiving Center (ARC), emergency services like the police or firefighters can be dispatched to your home immediately, 24/7. This level of professional monitoring ensures a fast response in any emergency.
Modern home alarm systems can be fully customized: choose the number of door/window sensors, security cameras, placement, real-time mobile notifications, smart home integration, remote arming/disarming, and even zone-based controls.
Since every household has different security needs, the ability to personalize your alarm system is one of the biggest advantages of today’s technology.
If you want to contact us with no obligation, we’ll be glad to assist you and answer all your questions about home and business security.
We are security specialists with a 24/7 Alarm Receiving Center located in Santiago de Compostela. In addition, we have offices in Madrid and Alicante, and we deliver security systems and services not only across Galicia but also throughout Spain and even internationally.
We provide comprehensive security solutions across Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, the Basque Country, Navarre, La Rioja, Aragon, Catalonia, the Valencian Community, Andalusia, Extremadura, Madrid, Castilla-La Mancha, and Castilla y León.
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