Three Layers of Security to Consider in Your Home
The Department of Defense (DoD) goes through an extensive process in vetting and accrediting secured facilities within and outside the Continental United States. In this article, I would like to discuss three areas that the DoD typically examines in accrediting these facilities. This information can be useful to help residents better defend their homes.
#1. Security In Depth
“Security in Depth” is a term used by the DoD that describes the factors that enhance the probability of detection before actual penetration to the secured area occurs. When thinking about securing your home, the first area of insight that we should draw from these factors would be the location or environment of the home. This helps determine the potential threat level and possible vulnerabilities of the property. It is also important to identify what type of home it is; such as an apartment or condominium in the city, a track home in the suburbs, or an isolated rural piece of property? Each location has different concerns to consider and overcome.
Once environmental factors have been identified, we need to ask the question, “Where does my secure perimeter exist”? Not just the walls and windows, but also gates or fencing. Having fencing around your property would be considered added security in depth. If you are unable to have fencing, you would increase security by adding other measures. For example, an exterior motion light or even a dog would be an effective deterrent for an unwanted visitor. Having a motion light would make the area around the outside of your home inspect able in the evening. Uninspectable areas around the perimeter are points of vulnerability and should be addressed. Motion lighting and or a dog on your property discourages intruders, and alerts you when there is movement.
#2. Access Controls
The next layer of security I would like to discuss is access controls. How secure are your doors and windows? Most consumers are very trusting of the standard locking systems that come in our homes. The reality is most of the hardware that comes from home improvement box stores are easily picked without showing any evidence of intrusion. Adding a chain or a slide bolt on the secure side of your door is an inexpensive way to address this issue. Speaking to a certified locksmith regarding your door hardware would be the next step in securing your home especially during the hours when no one is there. Improving or replacing the hardware will dramatically increase your home security. Most intruders are looking for a quick and easy target. If you discourage, or make access to your home a challenge, it is likely that an intruder will move on to an easier prospect.
#3. IDS - Intrusion Detection System
The last layer of security to consider that is mandatory in DoD accredited facilities is an Intrusion Detection System (IDS). A home alarm system or IDS would be a central layer of defense. It is the notification that alerts you if someone has gained access to your home or property. The IDS is also beneficial to alert local authorities in your absence. This added layer of security discourages unauthorized entry, notifies you to respond to unwanted intruder and alerts the authorities that there is a disturbance in your home.
Keeping our nation and our homes protected is something to be taken seriously. Taking time to consider the current security in your home is a wise investment and first step to a secure property. To find out more about having a FREE Home Security Walk-thru of your home or business, give us a call at 1-800-310-9490.
Editors Note: Andrew has been providing top security solutions for quite a while and has become a respected authority in his field. Take his advise and arm your home like a DOD security specialist. Click below and sign up for your FREE home security review today.
About the Author: Guest contributor Andrew Henneforth manages Physical Security for Adamo Security Group. Andrew has been building high security facilities for over seven years. He has worked on projects for both the federal government and the nation's top defense contractors. As both a father/family man and a security professional he understands the need to not just strengthen national security but also the safety and security of Americas greatest asset, the home.
