The Importance of Locking Your Front and Back Doors: A Safety Discussion

Does locking your front and back doors seem like a safety no-brainer? Or do you view them as merely symbolic barriers to an honest man? In this article, we delve into the importance of securing both entry points to your home, exploring real-life scenarios and practical advice for enhancing your home security.

Common Practices and Perspectives

Among homeowners, there are varied practices when it comes to locking doors. Some actively lock both the front and back doors, seeing them as essential elements of safety. Others, however, might rely solely on an alarm system or other security measures, with back doors often remaining unlocked for convenience. What are the merits of each practice?

**Security Enthusiasts:**

My house has a front door that I don’t use much. It is usually locked, while the back door closest to the driveway remains unlocked for daily use. This approach allows for convenience while still providing some level of security.

**Non-Locking Advocates:**

I do not lock any doors. An old saying goes, 'All a lock does is keep an honest man out.' However, my perspective has changed after a close call with a burglary.

Real-Life Scenarios

Real-life scenarios often provide the most compelling arguments for locking doors. One such scenario involves my neighbor’s experience with a home invasion. Interestingly, my house was the intended target, but I was fortunate to be home during the incident.

**Dangerous Incidents:**

My next-door neighbor was burglarized, and it is believed that my house was the intended target. My dogs provided a valuable early warning, alerting me to suspicious activity. Locking doors even partially was key to catching the intruder.

Home Defense Techniques

The effectiveness of locking doors is not just about inconvenience; it is about deterrence and protection. Here are some techniques and strategies to enhance your home’s security:

**Permanent Locks and Alarms:**

We lock our doors for over 50 years. We also have remote-connected security monitoring, which has significantly increased our sense of safety. The presence of visible security measures can often deter would-be intruders.

**Community Awareness:**

My neighborhood, while quiet, is still a sketchy area, especially for those without 24/7 monitoring. Even in seemingly safe towns, crime can occur. Keeping doors locked is a priority.

**Natural Barriers:**

My dogs, particularly my four pitbulls, serve as a natural deterrent. They may not attack, but the mere presence of these animals is a powerful deterrent. Additionally, word-of-mouth about the homeowner’s status (like being a veteran) can reduce the likelihood of unwanted attention.

Conclusion

While the decision to lock your front and back doors might seem trivial, it plays a crucial role in home security. The argument for locking doors is not only about convenience but also about deterring potential intruders and providing a layer of insurance against unforeseen events. Whether you choose to lock both doors or rely on additional security measures, the key is consistency and vigilance. After all, no home is completely safe; but with the right strategies in place, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.