Home Security Hacks That Cut Burglary Risk by 83%

At a Glance

• 83% of burglars are deterred by visible alarm signs.
• Motion-triggered floodlights can scare intruders and signal cameras.
• Smart doorbells and locks give two-way audio and remote control.
• Why it matters: These simple tech upgrades can turn a home into a low-risk target, giving homeowners peace of mind after the holiday bustle.

The holiday rush is over, but the risk of break-ins remains. By Tyler Lacoma, a seasoned smart-home expert, this guide from News Of Fort Worth outlines practical steps to make a house harder to target. By adding motion-sensing lights, visible signs, and smart locks, homeowners can protect property while staying busy with 2026 goals.

Lighting and Visibility

Motion-triggered floodlights keep backyards and driveways watched, while cameras with built-in spotlights ignore cars and focus on people, letting you see who is near. Visible alarm signs deter thieves, with studies showing 83% of burglars are scared off. Video doorbells provide obvious surveillance and two-way audio.

• Set floodlights to trigger on motion.
• Choose brands like Arlo, Ring, Blink.
• Use zones and sensitivity controls.
• Install video doorbells (Nest, Arlo, Ring, Aqara).
• Store footage for later review.

Arlo Pro 4 offers a 160-degree field of view and built-in spotlight, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.

Smart Devices and Sensors

Access sensors on windows and back doors send alerts and enable actions like calling out or sounding a siren. Smart locks keep the front door secure and can auto-lock, while sirens can be triggered via app or motion detection, and two-way audio on many cameras can scare intruders.

• Install access sensors with your security system.
• Use smart locks that auto-lock after inactivity.
• Receive reminders if the lock is open.
• Add sirens to cameras or security kits.
• Use Ring or Amazon devices with audio.

SimpliSafe’s sensor kit includes door, window, and motion sensors that work seamlessly with the base station.

Monitoring and Extras

Vacation modes make lights mimic daily activity, discouraging thieves. Smart garage doors automatically close and alert you if left open. Professional monitoring can contact emergency responders automatically, and delivery lockboxes keep packages safe from porch pirates.

• Enable vacation mode on smart lights.
• Pair with cameras for remote viewing.
• Retrofit garage doors with smart systems.
• Choose plans like Arlo Secure Premium ($25/mo) or SimpliSafe Fast Protect (≈$30/mo).
• Install a package lockbox like Loxx Boxx with app alerts.

The Loxx Boxx lockbox can be monitored via a smartphone app and provides a tamper alarm.

Key Takeaways

• Motion-triggered floodlights and visible signs can deter 83% of burglars.
• Two-way audio and smart locks give instant deterrence and remote control.
• Professional monitoring and delivery lockboxes add an extra layer of safety.

With these straightforward upgrades, homeowners can keep their property secure while juggling everyday life, turning post-holiday peace into lasting protection.