Security and defense

Security in layers

by Joe Miller

The best defense is never being a target. Build layers, from the street to the safe room, so trouble goes somewhere else.

Layers of security, outside inSafe roomSolid door, phone, last lineInsideLocks, alarm, firearm stored safelyThe houseSolid doors, strong strike plates, window locksThe yardMotion lights, cameras, no hiding spotsThe neighborhoodKnow your neighbors; look lived-inEach layer slows a threat and gives you warning.
Most burglars move on at the first sign of resistance.
Cheap upgrades that work3-inch strike-plate screwsMakes doors far harder tokick inMotion lightsAt every doorCameras and a doorbell camSeen and recordedA dogThe best alarm there isWindow film and barsSlow forced entryKeep valuables, guns and preps out of sight from the street and the curb.
Start with doors: most break-ins come through them.
Firearms and preparednessDoDon'tLearn the four rules of gun safetyStore guns locked; quick-access safes for defense gunsTrain with the gun you keepKnow your state's self-defense and carry lawsTeach kids: stop, don't touch, run away, tell an adultNever leave a gun where children can reach itNever use a gun as your first layer of securityNever shoot at what you can't clearly identifyNever assume a law from another state applies to yoursNever post your guns and preps online
Responsible ownership is part of being prepared.
Rifles, shotguns, pistols, ammo, home defense and state laws explained at gunscritical.com.
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Sources

Checked November 11, 2026.