What is Layered Home Security?

Since my last post, where I introduced the concept of layered security, I thought it prudent to get deeper into the specifics.  Layered security is a military strategy based on many years of combat experience.  Since I have been on assignments with heavy machine guns in towers and multiple layers of concertina wire, it might be good to know that home security and self defense are a lot like military security.  The similarity is that good home security, and self defense are not prefaced on one singular mechanism or alarm system.  In this post I will discuss how, home security should be layered to create effective defenses against hoodlums, and thieves, and worse. 

Layer 1 - The first layer of security in your home is less about stopping the bad guys, as it is about communication.  Layer 1 is the outermost reaches from your home and safety area.  This is generally a fence or a common public area like a sidewalk.  In layer 1 if you can't use a fence, then the next best thing is a sign.  A sign which indicates you have a home alarm system or a huge dog is an excellent deterrent.  If those things aren't possible or preferred, I recommend a early warning device.  Communicate that you are not an easy target.
Layer 2 - The Second layer of home security is the space between your property line and your home itself.  Do you have decent lighting in vulnerable areas?  Do you have bushes or other items that would allow unseen access to the house.  No home is perfect, but you should know your weaknesses and address them.  Use motion sensitive lighting and surveillance cameras to secure weak areas. 
Layer 3 - In the 3rd layer things get very interesting.  The 3rd layer is your exterior walls, windows, and doors.  If you have ground level windows, plant thorny bushes beneath them.  Bad guys don't like thorns.  Give yourself the ability to see who is at your door without standing  at the door itself.  Use video surveillance cameras on all points of entry or egress.  Keep door well lit all the time and windows well lit when possible. 
Layer 4 - Most people have at least some 4th layer security, but ironically, most people don't have nearly enough.  A large number of burglaries and home invasions occur simply because the scum bags kick the door in.  In most houses there is only about two screws and a 1/2 an inch of wood keeping the door locked.  Reinforce your doors with something.  There are several ways to reinforce doors.  If you need assistance visit us at www.everythinghomeprotection.net
Layer 5 - This is what we call The Last Stand.  This is generally a bedroom, or closet.  This is the area inside your home where you can best observe and protect yourself by whatever means necessary.  In this area, you should have a phone, a powerful flashlight or spot light, and your self defense tool or choice either a gun, Taser, or something. 

A dog is the best home protection device ever born.  A dog can transcend layers of protection, by acting as an early warning device, a layer 4 physical deterrent, and as a Last Stand defensive tool.