Home Security Advice: 5 Reasons Residents Ignore Expert Recommendations | By Jordan Frankel

Have you looked at your local news reports today? Chances are you’ve seen stories about residential burglaries or home invasions. Unfortunately, similar incidents will likely appear tomorrow. While these crimes are troubling, what’s even more alarming is how many residents continue leaving their homes and families at risk despite home security advice from experts.

With over 20 years of experience working with law enforcement, the U.S. military, and residents, Jordan Frankel knows home security inside and out. In this article, he addresses five reasons residents ignore expert home security advice and explains why it’s vital to take action.

1. “I want to let fresh air in while I’m home. Keeping windows and screen doors locked isn’t reasonable.”

Home security doesn’t mean locking yourself inside like a prisoner. Instead, it’s about understanding risks in your neighborhood and reducing them. You can enjoy fresh air safely by taking a few simple precautions:

• Limit access: Keep ground-floor windows and doors in unoccupied rooms closed and locked. Only open those in spaces where you or your family are present.
• Secure openings: Use solid wood or metal rods in window tracks to limit how far they can slide open.
• Upgrade screen doors: Replace flimsy mesh screens with sturdy metal ones that open outward. These provide fresh air while keeping you safe behind a locked, robust barrier.
• Install motion sensors: Equip your property with wireless motion sensors or surveillance systems to detect any unusual activity.

2. “I always lock my windows and doors. That’s enough to keep intruders out.”

Relying solely on standard locks is a critical mistake. According to the FBI, most burglaries involve locked doors or windows. Intruders often break through these weak points with little effort.

To see how easy it is for an intruder to bust through a locked entry door, watch this video demonstration and how the OnGARD security door brace can prevent such a break-in. As the video demonstrates, the standard frames and locks on entry doors cannot withstand the force of a hefty kick or body slam. Installing a security door brace at the base of your main entry doors eliminates this problem by combining the strength of the door, the door frame, and the floor to create a barrier that can withstand over 1700 pounds of force.

Home Security Advice: Strengthen your entry points with high-quality security devices:

• Security door brace: As the demonstration in the video shows, the OnGARD security door brace combines the strength of your door, frame, and floor to withstand over 1,700 pounds of force.
• Window protection film: BurglarGARD security film reinforces glass panes, making them difficult to shatter. This added effort and noise often deter criminals entirely.

3. “I keep my porch light on at night. Motion-activated lights are unnecessary.”

While many burglaries happen during the day, nighttime crimes still occur. Motion-activated lights are crucial for nighttime security because they disrupt intruders’ plans by removing the darkness they rely on.

Why Motion-Activated Lights Work:

• Psychological deterrent: Bright lights signal that you take security seriously, which makes criminals think twice.
• Startling effect: Sudden illumination often scares intruders, increasing their fear of being caught.

Consider devices like the STARTLE LED light. Its bright output and advanced motion-sensing technology detect people and vehicles effectively, reducing false triggers from small animals.

4. “My neighborhood is safe. Burglaries and home invasions only happen in high-crime areas.”

This misconception can leave homeowners unprepared. Even the safest neighborhoods experience crime, often catching residents off guard. For instance, Portland, Oregon—one of the safest U.S. cities—still reports regular burglaries and occasional home invasions. Residents sometimes fall victim to a false sense of security, assuming these crimes won’t happen in their area. However, criminals frequently target these “safe” neighborhoods because they expect fewer security measures in place.

Home Security Advice: Regardless of where you live, prioritize proactive security measures to reduce your risk. Simple steps like installing outdoor lighting, reinforcing doors, and securing windows can make a significant difference. Transitioning to a mindset of preparedness helps deter opportunistic criminals who exploit a neighborhood’s perceived safety.

5. “Home security is too expensive. I can’t afford all those devices.”

Many people assume home security requires a significant financial investment, but this misconception can leave your home vulnerable. The average loss per burglary in the U.S. exceeds $2,400, and that figure doesn’t include the emotional distress or the loss of irreplaceable items like family heirlooms and personal documents. Considering the potential costs of a burglary, even small investments in home security can save money and provide peace of mind.

Affordable Security Solutions:

• Start small: You don’t need an elaborate system to improve your home’s security. Begin with one or two high-quality devices that address your home’s most vulnerable areas. For example, security door braces and window protection film are budget-friendly options that effectively prevent break-ins. These simple measures can make a big difference in protecting your home without requiring a significant upfront cost.
• Layer your security: Affordable deterrents like motion-activated lights or prominently displayed security signs can discourage potential intruders. These additions are inexpensive yet effective in making your home a less attractive target.
• Prioritize prevention: Preventing a burglary is always less expensive than recovering from one. Invest in devices designed to stop intruders before they gain entry. For example, door reinforcements and glass security film are cost-effective tools that offer robust protection. These preventative measures not only save money but also reduce the stress and fear that often follow a break-in.

Making small, affordable upgrades to your home’s security can drastically reduce the risk of burglary. Transitioning to a mindset that prioritizes prevention ensures your home and loved ones remain protected without straining your budget.

Reduce Your Risk: Listen to Expert Home Security Advice

Today’s crime statistics and news reports make it clear that proactive home security measures are not optional—they are essential. Burglaries and home invasions can happen anywhere, even in neighborhoods perceived as safe. By prioritizing your home’s security and learning from experts like Jordan Frankel, you can avoid common pitfalls and strengthen your defenses effectively.

Taking small, proactive steps now can make all the difference. Whether it’s installing security door braces, upgrading your locks, or reinforcing windows with glass protection film, every improvement adds a layer of protection. These measures not only reduce your risk of becoming a victim but also provide invaluable peace of mind.

Remember, home security is not about waiting for something to go wrong—it’s about staying ahead of potential threats. Following the advice of seasoned experts ensures that your efforts are both practical and impactful. Protect your home and loved ones by taking action today. Your safety is worth it.