With more and more technological systems for home security coming out, especially those with reliance on smartphone use, it seems as though those who prefer not to have a smartphone are completely left out of this boom. However, there are many ways that you can secure your home without relying upon Wi-Fi or a monitored security system.

The concept is to make burglars think twice before attempting to enter your place – to make it  look occupied. You’ve probably already heard of the usual tricks: When out of town, put a hold on your newspaper and mail delivery; have someone mow your grass; have someone park their car in your driveway, etc.

But let’s refine these tactics so that they don’t look staged. Getting a home security system is your best bet. But if you don’t have the money, then try these following tips:

  1. You’ve heard the one about leaving a large dog bowl by the front door. But come on, what actual dog owner does this? It’s still a good thing to do. (Make it look used, not spanking clean. Keep a few morsels of food in it.)
  2. Use automatic light timers.
  3. Plant thorny shrubs around windows.
  4. If you have horizontally-sliding windows, put Charlie bars or other blocking devices on the tracks to prevent them from being slid open.
  5. Hang a portable alarm on your front door’s inner doorknob; an alarm will sound if the knob turns (the battery-operated alarm can be turned off with a switch).
  6. Invest in a top-notch deadbolt system.
  7. Keep all windows locked! Yes, sex offenders and thieves really do slip in through windows.
  8. Install a fake surveillance camera above your front door and in the back.
  9. Invest in motion detection sensors that flip on lights and alarms.
  10. Learn self-defense and have the pepper spray strategically located in the house.

BONUS TIP:
Always keep your doors locked! Even when you’re home! There’s no such thing as a burglar who never works during the day, and rapists aren’t stopped by daylight.