How secure is your home? What security devices do you have on your doors? Do you trust that locks alone will keep someone on the other side of your door?

In these uncertain times, I like to feel that my family is safe when I lie down to sleep at night. We protect them in every way possible but do we do enough?

Did you know that anyone with an internet connection, 10 cents worth of office supplies and intent can make their way through a standard door lock in less than 5 minutes?

There are most likely 100’s of devices that can help make your home more secure. Today I’m going to talk about a few of them.

These are a great DIY option, you can pick them up at numerous retailers and easily install them your self. A door security bar goes against the floor and under the doorknob creating a wedge. They vary in both price and quality so shop around.

Local alarms are just like the more expensive monthly alarm systems, with one big hitch. When you sign up for an alarm company, the alarm they install calls automatically to a central station once triggered. Then the central station tries to contact the subscriber, from there they have numerous protocols. Ultimately, they would dispatch the authorities if they are unable to reach the contact person and obtain the passcode to cancel the alarm.

A local alarm would not call anyone, that would be up to you if you are home. It would sound a siren and wake you or otherwise alert you to a potential security breach.

Anyone who has ever lived in an apartment or stayed in a hotel has most likely used a chain lock. While it is not the ultimate security device it does add a fairly inexpensive layer of additional security to your doors. An intruder would not be able to bypass a chain lock device without being fairly loud if properly installed, hint the screws sold with the device are usually short and should be replaced with a long screw penetrating deep into the jamb or wall stud.

These devices have become more popular in recent years at apartments and hotels as well. They are similar to a chain and also allow the door to be opened slightly to allow someone to speak to someone on the other side of the door without opening it completely. Also a fairly inexpensive device. They allow a layer of additional security and would make unauthorized entry more difficult. Again this device needs to be properly installed with screws that penetrate beyond the door casing.

This device is a portable option and many people use them when traveling as the can be used on hotel and motel doors as well.

The truth is no matter which option you choose anything is a better alternative to nothing. Remember the old saying locks keep only honest people out? These devices can help keep all unauthorized people out.

In closing as always, if you have questions, concerns or need help with door security or any projects around your home Operation Handyman is here to help.