The main idea behind urban home security is a concept called “target hardening,” which is used by law enforcement agencies to describe the process by which a home or business is made less attractive or “harder” for criminals to attack.
Recent trends in home security have focused on technological advancements, increased connectivity, and user-friendly solutions. Here are some key trends observed in the home security industry:
- Smart home integration: Integrating home security systems with smart home technology allows users to control and monitor their security devices, along with other smart devices, through a single app or platform. This includes compatibility with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple’s Siri.
- IoT (Internet of Things) devices: IoT technology has enabled the development of connected security devices, such as smart locks, cameras, and sensors, which can communicate with each other and the user’s smartphone or other devices for seamless, real-time monitoring and control.
- Video doorbells: Video doorbells have become increasingly popular as they allow homeowners to see, hear, and speak to visitors at their door using a smartphone, even when they’re not at home. These devices often come with motion detection and night vision capabilities.
- Wireless and DIY systems: More home security companies offer wireless and do-it-yourself (DIY) security systems that are easy to install and require minimal technical expertise. These systems are often more affordable and flexible than traditional wired systems.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning: AI and machine learning technologies are incorporated into home security devices to improve functionality, such as advanced video analytics for facial recognition, object detection, and anomaly detection.
- Subscription-based services: Many home security companies are shifting towards offering subscription-based services, including remote monitoring, professional installation, and ongoing customer support. These services often come with customizable plans to cater to different customer needs.
- Cybersecurity: As home security systems become more connected, there is a growing emphasis on protecting these devices from cyber threats. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on strengthening encryption protocols and providing regular security updates.
- Energy efficiency and eco-friendly options: Home security systems incorporate energy-saving features, such as solar-powered cameras or devices that integrate with smart thermostats, to reduce energy consumption and promote environmental sustainability.
- Enhanced mobile app functionality: Home security mobile apps are becoming more feature-rich, giving users greater control over their security systems, real-time alerts, live video streaming, and the ability to customize settings and preferences.
- Touchless access control: In response to health and hygiene concerns, touchless access control solutions, such as keyless entry systems and facial recognition, is gaining popularity for residential use.
It’s essential to note that these trends may continue to evolve as technology advances and consumer preferences change.
Despite the advanced technology, nothing beats the “old but gold” techniques to protect your home. The following suggestions can help increase a home’s ” hardness ” to encourage criminals to find other targets. Ideally, a whole block or neighborhood can implement these measures, decreasing overall crime.
Clean up Outside
A clean, tidy yard gives the impression that the homeowner is attentive and knows what is happening outside. A neat yard also lets the owner notice if something is out of place – a dirty yard will attract thieves and scavengers.
Similarly, it is a good idea to remove any large bushes or trees which would provide a hiding place for someone looking to break in. Also, structures, where a criminal could climb up to the second level of a house, should be removed – for example, a large tree branch near an upstairs window.
Invest in Window Bars
Any home with a basement-level window will benefit from adding security bars. Even if the bars are not of the highest quality, the appearance of bars will deter all but the most determined criminal – the average thief is looking for the easiest target to strike, and bars will make the crime much more difficult.
Alarm the House
Investing in a decent alarm system can make a world of difference to peace of mind and limit the potential for criminal activity at home. Still, there are two important things to note regarding alarms. First, make sure that the alarm company is on the straight and narrow. A reputable company should have a website, be able to provide references to other clients and be knowledgeable about any technology being put into a home.
Second, an alarm system is about deterrence. An alarm sticker in a home’s window will often cause a criminal to simply bypass the house in favor of an easier target. Should the criminal still attempt to break in, the alarm will not stop their entry but will scare them off. In both cases, it will have been worth the price.
Light it up
Light can make a difference in security, whether it is a lamp or light on within the home, or a permanent set of motion or low-intensity lights outside of a home. Since, in many modern suburbs, houses are built quite close together, criminals depend on silence and darkness to help them accomplish their aims. A well-lit home will put them off because of the higher potential to be discovered by neighbors or other passersby.
Be Visible
The more people out and about in a neighborhood, at any time of day, the fewer criminals will be attracted to it. Too many communities have streets where people need to learn about their neighbors and spend most of their time inside their houses. This is perfect for a thief. Ideally, neighbors should talk to one another and spend time outside in the neighborhood. If a thief sees that people are constantly coming and going on a particular cul-de-sac and all the neighbors look out for one another, a crime will be much harder.
While no amount of target hardening will make a home completely impervious to criminal activity, simple steps such as the ones mentioned above can have a pronounced impact on the amount of crime both at a single location and in a larger area if adopted by multiple homes.