If you live alone, you know what it's like to question how safe you are. There's always the thought lingering in the back of your mind that someone is waiting to break into your home. That's why you need home security. Keep reading for some home security tips that can protect you.

Choose a deadbolt lock over a spring-latch lock. The spring-latch lock is much easier for burglars that are experienced in "loiding." Loiding refers to the method where a plastic card like a credit card is slipped against the latch tongue in order to depress it, which will unlock your door. The deadbolt will prevent an attack like this. Deadbolts are vulnerable only when there is plenty of space in between your door and your door frame for intruders to use hacksaws or power tools.

Don't post online when you'll be away from your home. While it is exciting to go to a new place and have a good time, you are letting thieves know that your house will be empty and they can come right in.

A home security system works by alerting the local police when the alarm goes off. The police immediately place a telephone call to your home. If you do not answer your phone and provide a security code, an officer will be sent to your home with possible backup available should it be needed.

Being familiar with your next-door neighbors can be a great help. When your going away let your neighbors know and ask if they will keep an eye on your property. Forming a neighborhood watch group may be an even better idea but just having the neighbors in adjacent houses looking out for each other is a great start.

Park in the garage. While it may be tempting to use the garage as an extra storage area instead, doing so will mean that you have to park out where everyone can see your car. Not only are you setting yourself up to have your vehicle vandalized, but burglars can also keep track of when you are home and when you are away.

Skylights could be a problem for the safety of your home. Skylights are a wonderful addition to any home, but they also tend to be weak spots that intruders take advantage of. Having heavy duty, reliable hardware is best when it comes to skylights.

When people come to your door unexpectedly, ask who is there before you open the door. Even if you live in a neighborhood that does not have a high crime rate, it is still a good idea to be careful. If the person on the other side is hesitant about replying, never open the door.

If you have a security system and you go away often, you may want to think about putting surveillance cameras all around your property. Nowadays, there is software in which you can view what is going on through the Internet. This is a great way to keep an eye on your property when you are gone.

To reduce the chances of a home invasion at night, make sure you have proper lighting. Burglars try to use darkness as a cover to avoid getting caught. Outdoor lighting can make it look like you're home and can also make it harder for intruders to sneak around unseen. If you are on a trip, try having a timer set for the lights to come on and go off at specific times to make it harder for them to tell if you're home or not.

Just because you live alone, that doesn't mean that you have to feel unsafe. There are home security methods that you can use to protect yourself and take the fear out of your life. You shouldn't have to waste your time worrying about when the next burglar will strike. Use these tips and be at your safest.