You have seen it on TV and you have seen advertisements and fliers all over newspapers. The ad shows a completely wireless security system that triggers a CCTV camera into action the moment it detects movement in the yard. This camera footage is then relayed directly to constant monitoring companies who record it and inform law enforcement agencies about the break in. Within minutes, the police swoop down and arrest the intruder red handed. The occupants of the house are safe and do not even have to lift a finger to protect their assets. The security system is the most advanced one and works by itself. Many people wonder and wish that they too could buy such advanced security systems for their home. But not everyone can do that. For security systems can be expensive and if you plan to hire the services of a constant monitoring company, then the cost goes even higher.
Does that mean that you cannot protect your home?
Not really. A little bit of smart thinking and a much smaller investment can give you some level of protection and a feeling of contentment that your home is now safe from potential intruders and burglars alike. There are several ways of doing this on a budget. Let us look at some of them.
An Illusion of protection
‘Illusions are the mirages of Hope’ - Old Adage.
This old adage speaks for itself. An illusion or an impression that your home is protected by the latest security gadgetry is all that you need to keep a potential burglar away. How can you do that? And what will it cost? It’s pretty simple and its not gonna cost you more than a hundred dollars. Any burglar walking down the street will think twice before even attempting to walk close to your home.
- Fake signs and decals - Budget < $20: There are superbly designed and authentic looking signs and decals for sale. These signs feature the logo of a well known security company followed by a message that warns intruders about the presence of a security system or CCTV camera. ‘This home is protected by Security 2020‘. And the mere presence of these signs can cause jitters in the minds of most burglars or robbers. You can buy them for less than $20 and hang them or mount them at prominent locations around your home.
- Dummy Security Cameras - Budget < $20: A dummy security camera is a complete camera housing with a motion detector installed. It moves when it detects motion and even has a red LED light that gives the sense of authenticity. You can mount one or more of these cameras at places which can be easily spotted by burglars. It can scare them away easily. Dummy cameras are available in different shapes and sizes. Some advanced models even have a fake camera lens that can be seen if closely examined. You can also combine them with fake signs and decals to enhance the impression of protection.
- Involve the neighbors - Budget = $0: This is not going to cost you a penny but it can be a priceless addition to your list of security features on a budget. Take the time and introduce yourself to your neighbors. A smart and alert neighbor can be as good as a high end security system. Inform them about your job patterns and the time that you are usually away from home. They should also be allowed to call law enforcement agencies in case they find anything suspicious. Neighborhood watch programs where one neighbor watches out for the other is also a wonderful way to look out for each other in the neighborhood.
- Electronic watchdogs - Budget < $100: An electronic watchdog is an efficient and hassle free replacement for an actual watchdog. It is a motion sensor device that works on Passive Infrared technology. It detects heat from body temperature and movement and sounds an alarm that sounds like the bark of a full grown German shepherd. You can buy one under $100 and it offers several features like increasing volume for the growls (the growl turns into an angry snarl as the person comes closer), detection of up to 4 zones and different tunes for the alarm.
- Dog warning signs - Budget < $50: An ideal addition for the electronic watchdog is a signboard that says ‘Beware of dog’ or ‘I have a dog and he may bite’. Burglars do not like the feel of a set of large jaws against their ankles or hand. And here’s how you can make it even more authentic. You can buy a couple of large dog bowls and a heavy chain and leave it right where it is seen. The total cost will be about $50 and you have a great illusion of being protected by a ferocious watchdog.
- Motion Sensors and lighting - Budget < $100: A motion sensor device can track movement and then relay a signal to an alarm system or even activate a set of lights. This makes them an ideal and cost effective solution for outdoor security. A few lights and a motion detector system is all that you need. If a burglar walks in to your home in the dark and suddenly, the lights come on and he sees the fake security signs, he will vanish into thin air as soon as he arrived.
These are some of the most innovative but effective ways to protect your homes when you are on a budget. But always remember that most of these systems are designed to give an impression that your home is guarded and not actually guard it.
