Did you know that a burglary happens once every 26 seconds in the US? 

No matter the size of your house or the neighborhood you live in, home safety should be a top concern of yours as a homeowner. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do to protect your home from burglars. 

Check out this guide to discover the top home security tips every homeowner needs to know. 

1. Install a Home Alarm System 

Installing a home alarm system is one of the best things you can do to deter burglars. 

A home alarm system is designed to detect unauthorized entry into your home. While an alarm system may not prevent a burglar from entering your home, once the alarm goes off, it'll get them out of there pretty quickly. 

In some cases, even the presence of an alarm system is enough to deter burglars from attempting to break into your home. Once your alarm is triggered, the police are alerted and will hopefully be to your house within minutes. 

While some people choose to only engage their alarms when they're away from their home, it's best to have your alarm engaged at all times. 

2. Install a Door/Window Chime 

If you don't want to splurge for an entire home security system, at the very least, you should install a door/window chime. 

If a burglar is going to break into your home, they're likely going to enter through your door or window. In fact, according to a recent study, 34 percent of burglars break in through the front door, and 23 percent of burglars break in through a first-floor window. 

This is why having some form of protection in these areas is so important. With a door/window chime, an alarm will sound when someone attempts to pry open one of these entry points. 

3. Install Security Cameras 

Security cameras aren't just for businesses- they're for any homeowner who is serious about protecting their property. 

You can buy security cameras in conjunction with a home security system or on their own. The great thing about security cameras is that you don't need to splurge on a top of the line system. Oftentimes, the presence of a camera is enough to deter burglars from attempting to break in. 

In fact, many people choose to install fake security cameras because there's a very small chance that a burglar would actually attempt to check if the camera is working. 

Whether you choose real or fake cameras, it's important that you install them at the right location. We recommended placing security cameras near your front door, back door, first-floor windows, garage, and basement. 

4. Don't Provide Hiding Spots for Thieves 

If there are a bunch of places for thieves to hide in your yard, they're going to feel more comfortable breaking into your home. 

Keeping your trees and bushes trimmed is one of the best ways to eliminate hiding spots in your yard. You'll also want to look at the lighting on your property. 

If there are dark places around your home where a thief can comfortably hide, consider installing lights in these areas. We suggest opting for motion detection lights, as these can help you conserve energy, as they only turn on when someone is walking past. Plus, then you won't have to annoy your neighbors by having bright lights on all the time. 

5. Don't Let Burglars Know You're Not Home 

A vacant home is a gold mine for burglars. 

If you're going on vacation, don't make a public announcement beforehand, especially on social media. Save all vacation updates and picture sharing for when you return home. 

Additionally, you should have a neighbor or trusted friend stop by every day to pick up your mail, newspapers, and other items that are left at your door. 

It can also be a good idea to leave a car in your driveway, as this can give the illusion that someone is home. Also, make sure you have someone coming over to maintain your lawn and the exterior of your home if you plan to be away for a long time. 

6. Take Window Protection One Step Further 

As we mentioned earlier in this article, burglars commonly break in through windows. 

If you're looking to take window protection a step further, we recommend doing two things: Installing shatterproof glass and installing tinted windows. 

Shatterproof glass essentially prevents break-ins from occurring via your windows. If new windows aren't in your budget, then consider adding a security film. Security film prevents the glass from shattering once it's broken. This may also deter thieves from continuing their break-in attempt. 

Tinted windows are another great security measure to take, as they allow you to see outside your home but don't allow people to see in your home. Not only does this allow for extra privacy, but it also prevents thieves from being able to learn the layout of your home. 

7. Secure Your Sliding Glass Doors 

Sliding glass doors are notorious for being incredibly flimsy. If you have sliding glass doors in your home, you should be taking extra steps to secure them. 

One of the best things you can do is install a security bar, as this will make gaining access into your home more difficult. We also suggest installing motion sensor lights near your sliding glass doors. 

Home Security Tips: Are You Ready to Step Up Your Home Security? 

Now that you've read this article, it's time to put these home security tips into action. Pretty soon, your home will be secure and safe. 

If you're looking to buy security products for your home, be sure to check out our inventory today.