Home Security on a Budget: A Prepper's Guide

The Layered Approach

Home security isn't one thing — it's layers. Each layer deters, delays, or detects threats. The goal isn't to build a fortress. It's to make your home a harder target than your neighbor's.

Layer 1: Deterrence ($0-50)

Most burglars are opportunists. Make them choose a different house:

• Lighting: Motion-activated lights at every entry point ($15-25 each, solar-powered)
• Visibility: Trim bushes below window height — eliminate hiding spots
• Signs: Security system signs/stickers (even fake ones deter 60% of burglars)
• Routine: Use timers on interior lights when away
• Dogs: Even a "Beware of Dog" sign helps, but a real dog is the best alarm system ever made

Layer 2: Hardening ($50-200)

Make physical entry difficult:

• Deadbolts: Every exterior door needs a quality deadbolt (Schlage B60N, ~$30)
• Strike plates: Replace standard strike plates with 3" screw reinforced versions ($10)
• Door reinforcement: Door Armor kit or EZ Armor ($60-80) — prevents kick-ins
• Window locks: Pin windows shut or add aftermarket locks ($5-10 each)
• Sliding doors: Place a cut broomstick or Charlie Bar in the track
• Garage: Don't forget the garage door — it's the most common entry point

The average break-in takes 60 seconds. If your door takes 3 minutes to breach, most intruders move on.

Layer 3: Detection ($0-150)

Know when something's wrong:

• Door/window sensors: Wyze Sense or Ring sensors ($20 per set)
• Cameras: Wyze Cam v3 ($35), Blink Outdoor ($80), or Ring Spotlight ($100)
• Driveway alert: Dakota Alert MURS ($130) — wireless motion sensor alerts you to movement hundreds of feet away
• Low-tech: Gravel paths around your house (impossible to walk on silently), wind chimes near gates, cans on string (don't laugh — it works)

Layer 4: Communication

• Keep phones charged with a plan to call 911
• Have a family safe word and room
• GMRS radios for property-wide communication
• Know your neighbors — a connected community is the best security system

Grid-Down Security

When the power's out and police response times stretch to hours or days:

• Solar-powered lights and cameras keep working
• Battery backup for your alarm system
• Neighborhood watch becomes critical — know who belongs and who doesn't
• Low-profile: Don't advertise your preps. The gray man approach applies to your house too
• Safe room: Designate one interior room with a solid door, lock, phone, flashlight, and defensive tools

The Most Overlooked Security Prep

Know your neighbors. In any extended emergency, your community IS your security. A neighborhood where people look out for each other is exponentially safer than any individual security system.

Introduce yourself. Share non-sensitive prep info. Form a neighborhood communication plan. When things go sideways, isolated individuals are vulnerable. Connected communities survive.