Serena Lopez
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8 Simple Ways To Protect Your Home Against Break-Ins
There are no foolproof plans, but it’s possible to decrease your odds of being targeted. Some tips are free to implement right away, while others may require a financial investment. 1. Install a home security system Home security systems monitor for intruders via motion, entries, and breaking glass. The more components you have, the more activity you’re able to observe.
What Disaster Specialists Say Every Family Needs in Their Home Safety Plan
Identify Natural Disasters in Your Area What natural disasters affect your area? Is it prone to tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, or wildfires? Even if there have been no recent disasters, consider this a possibility. Determine whether it's better to shelter in place or evacuate for each possible disaster. Knowing the proper protocol allows you to respond correctly without wasting time.
DIY Home Security Installation: Everything You Need To Know Before You Start
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Plan component placement before installation, and prioritize vulnerable ground-floor doors and windows.
11 Essential Home Fire Safety Tips Every Homeowner Needs to Know
Many of the experts we interviewed while researching fire safety were adamant that you don’t need fancy equipment to mitigate your fire risk, just basic safety practices. They also noted the importance of everyone in the household knowing what to do in case of fire before an emergency happens.
Stolen Package? How To File a Claim and Get Your Money Back
Install a security system with cameras Stopping porch pirates can be difficult, but knowing they may be captured on video could help dissuade them “Security systems that are visible serve as a deterrent. The majority of bad actors do not want to take the chance of being recorded. However, there are criminals that do not care and take the chance,” said Ed Burnett, former Vice President of Security and Global Fraud Investigations at UPS.
Best Spots for Security Cameras We asked experts to weigh in on the best places to install security cameras for better coverage and protection. (filistimlyanin) Most Popular
Security cameras are now found in 61% of U.S. households, according to a 2026 SafeHome survey. But even the best home security systems can't spot everything if your cameras aren't placed in the right areas. Expensive cameras installed incorrectly can leave you and your home vulnerable. Home security camera placement depends on your home's layout, your security needs and the type of camera you're installing.
Reclaim Your Privacy: How To Remove Your House From Google Street View
Security Having street views of your property gives potential criminals the means to determine if your home is accessible, locate access points and plan their strike based on your home’s exterior. “[Blurring your home] obscures details such as entry points, security system placement and visible high-value items that could make a property a target,” said Jeff Ketelaars, co-founder of Security Guards Only.
How To Start a Neighborhood Watch
Starting a neighborhood watch doesn’t cost money or require major qualifications, just a dedicated group of neighbors with the same goal. “[Neighborhood watch groups] work best in communities with people who are engaged and willing to collaborate,” said Jeff Ketelaars, co-founder of Security Guards Only.
Should You Pay for Professional Home Security Monitoring? (Read This First)
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. iStock Professional monitoring for a home security system allows a monitoring center to receive alerts from your home security system.
Before Buying a Home Security System, Here’s How Much You Should Budget
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
The Smart Guide To Buying a Home Security System: These Are the Features You Need
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
Home Security Installation: When To Hire an Expert or Do It Yourself
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
10 Tips for Home Safety in 2026 In this guide, we provide 10 essential tips to keep you and your family safe from a variety of hazards -- some of which you might not have considered. (gorodenkoff) Most Popular
Safeguarding your home is more accessible than ever, and you don't need to do everything to stay secure. We've synthesized advice from top industry experts to highlight the 10 most effective, budget-friendly ways to protect your home and family in 2026. Why Trust Us Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them.
How Home Security Systems Work: These Features Can Be Most Effective Against Burglars
A control panel lets you adjust settings and arm/disarm your system, while a base station is a signal hub that works with a companion keypad. Both serve as the brain of the system, though most of the time, a company will offer only one or the other. A keypad is an installed component in your home that lets you arm/disarm your system. A key fob is a remote control with the same capabilities – similar to a key fob for your car but for your security system instead.
Smart Security: How Home Automation Can Protect Your Home Even While You’re Away
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Marcus Millo Home automation is the ability to set rules or schedules for your smart home devices so they function automatically.
The Difference Between Burglary and Robbery: Why It Matters for Your Home Security
Before we dive into burglary and robbery, it’s essential to define theft since burglary may result in theft, and robbery is very similar to theft. Theft is the act of stealing personal property without force or threat of force. Because theft is a broad label that can also refer to stealing someone’s identity or intellectual property, “larceny” is the legal term used in many states to describe unlawfully taking or carrying away property belonging to someone else.
Best Home Security with Outdoor Cameras (vchal)
Visible security cameras are one of the best deterrents for intruders. According to a study done by the University of North Carolina Charlotte, about 60% of burglars would avoid a home due to the presence of a security system, including cameras. Another study conducted in Baltimore, Chicago and Washington, D.C., found that visible security cameras led to a decrease in crime. Our research and editorial teams have been reviewing home security systems since 2021.
Best Wireless Home Security Systems of 2026
About Our Team Caitlyn Fitzpatrick, Tester Caitlyn Fitzpatrick has been a professional editor and writer since 2014 and entered the commerce journalism world in 2017. She has tested a range of home products, including washing machines and dryers, vacuums, mattresses and beyond. Caitlyn personally uses two different security systems in her home because she believes that having peace of mind is priceless.
Home Security Systems for Renters Renters face a different set of needs when it comes to a home security system setup. (Wenbin) Most Popular
Renters face a different set of needs when it comes to a home security system setup. Damage-free installation and the ability to easily move your system to a new address are essential to ensure you get your rental deposit back and don't incur additional fees from the security company. Our research and editorial teams have been reviewing home security systems since 2021.
Best Self-Monitored Home Security Systems
About Our Team Caitlyn Fitzpatrick, Tester Caitlyn Fitzpatrick has been a professional editor and writer since 2014 and entered the commerce journalism world in 2017. She has tested a range of home products, including washing machines and dryers, vacuums, mattresses and beyond. Caitlyn personally uses two different security systems in her home because she believes that having peace of mind is priceless.
Trailer Hitch Installation Costs
To gauge how much you’ll pay for your entire trailer hitch purchase, consider the following main factors: Types of Trailer Hitches The most common noncommercial type is a receiver hitch. It’s the kind you see under the bumper of vehicles. Expect to pay between about $150 and $400 for a receiver hitch.
How Much To Tip Movers
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
Best DIY Home Security Systems of 2026
Find the right Home Security system for you. Find the right Home Security system for you. Get a personalized recommendation. No personal information required. Get a personalized recommendation. No personal information required. Take Quiz A DIY home security system is designed to be installed by the user at no extra cost and doesn't require a contract. Components are made for easy installation, with adhesive backings and either simple plug-in or battery-operated power.
Best Professionally Installed Home Security Systems
Find the right Home Security system for you. Find the right Home Security system for you. Get a personalized recommendation. No personal information required. Get a personalized recommendation. No personal information required. Take Quiz The Best Professionally Installed Home Security Systems in Detail At U.S. News & World Report, we take the security of your home and family seriously.
How To Forward Your Mail
International Moves If you’re planning an international move that will last a year or longer, you can request a permanent COA, but you must file it in person at your local USPS branch. If the international move is temporary (less than 12 months), a temporary COA is appropriate. Mail for a Business Forwarding your business’s mail is the same process as forwarding residential mail. When filling out the COA form, indicate that it is a business move.
5 Best Junk Removal Companies
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Got junk? Your local sanitation department may not handle all the items you want to throw out.
Moving From the U.S. to Canada
If you're planning a move to our northern neighbor Canada, you'll need to know the best way to relocate your life across the border, immigrate legally and settle into your new home. We researched every phase — from choosing a moving company to finding housing — to help your international move go smoothly. Why You Can Trust Us Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them.
Median Home Prices in Every State
California: $706,333 California is a desirable place to live due to its weather, geography and major industries. Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose and San Francisco are all coastal cities with strong industries that pull in people from all over the country and world. These areas also have higher median home sale prices than the overall state’s median pricing, ranging from $909,333 in San Diego to more than $1.3 million in San Francisco.
5 Best Piano Movers of 2026
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Moving a piano isn’t like moving any heavy object.
Select Home Warranty vs. Choice Home Warranty
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
SimpliSafe vs. ADT
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Similarities Both companies offer several pre-built and custom equipment packages with DIY and professional installation available.
Cheapest Home Security Systems of 2025
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Wyze tops our list as the best cheap home security system for its inexpensive plan costs and free and easy DIY setup.
Best No Monthly Fee Home Security Systems
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Key Takeaways Eufy is our best overall pick because of its high-quality cameras and convenient local storage support.
Best Home Security Systems
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
Arlo vs. Ring Alarm
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Affordable self-monitoring and professional monitoring plans are available from both companies.
How To Blur Your House on Google Maps
Concerns with Your Home on Google Maps Having street views of your property gives potential criminals the means to determine if your home is accessible, locate access points and plan their strike based on your home’s exterior. “[Blurring your home] obscures details such as entry points, security system placement, and visible high-value items that could make a property a target,” says Jeff Ketelaars, co-founder of Security Guards Only.
What To Do If Your Package Is Stolen
How to Prevent Stolen Packages and Porch Pirates Install a security system with cameras Stopping porch pirates can be difficult, but knowing they may be captured on video could help dissuade them “Security systems that are visible serve as a deterrent. The majority of bad actors do not want to take the chance of being recorded. However, there are criminals that do not care and take the chance,” says Ed Burnett, retired vice president of security and global fraud investigations at UPS.
How To Start a Neighborhood Watch
How To Form a Neighborhood Watch Starting a neighborhood watch doesn’t cost money or require major qualifications, just a dedicated group of neighbors with the same goal. “[Neighborhood watch groups] work best in communities with people who are engaged and willing to collaborate,” says Jeff Ketelaars, co-founder of Security Guards Only.
SimpliSafe Home Security System Review 2025: Expert Tested
Our rankings, ratings and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology.
Select Home Warranty vs. Choice Home Warranty
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. How Do Select Home Warranty and Choice Home Warranty Compare?
Apartment Security Camera Laws For Tenants
Landlords can install security cameras in common areas, like hallways, lobbies, elevators, and laundry rooms. However, the cameras must not be pointed toward a tenant’s front door or windows, as that would violate their privacy per the expectation of privacy law mentioned above. Landlords cannot install security cameras inside the tenant’s home, as doing so would also violate their expectation of privacy. Only 15 U.S. states have specific laws about security cameras.
How To Prevent Fog on Security Cameras
Anti-fog spray prevents moisture drops from sticking to the surface on which it is applied. It’s a reliable and inexpensive way to prevent fog, but it will require frequent reapplication. Spray a layer of it onto your camera’s outer lens cover and follow product instructions. 2. Wipe the fog away with a microfiber cloth. Probably the easiest way to prevent or get rid of fog on your outdoor security camera is to simply wipe it away.
Best Solar-Powered Security Cameras
There’s a wide range of security cameras on the market, so it may be hard to decide which is the best option for your home. Solar-powered security cameras are a great way to utilize cutting-edge technology combined with the power of the sun for round-the-clock monitoring, ensuring you don’t have to worry about manually recharging your camera or changing the batteries.
How To Install a Security Camera
Security cameras provide an extra set of eyes to help keep your home safe from intruders and other threats. Depending on how comfortable you are with DIY projects, you can often install security cameras in your home without the help of a pro. However, hiring a pro is the safer option if you’re installing a wired camera system and don’t have electrical experience. We’ve broken down the security camera installation process into several simple steps to help you make your home more secure.
How To Install Your Own Home Security System
Key Takeaways Before installing a security system, decide where you want to place your equipment and check your Wi-Fi’s range. You won’t need any unique tools to install your system – just a hammer, screwdriver, and drill. Installation can take 30 minutes or longer, depending on the size of your system and ease of setup. Before installing a home security system, you must determine a few things. Decide on the placement for each piece of equipment.
Wyze vs. SimpliSafe
Key Similarities: Wyze vs. SimpliSafe Wyze and Simplisafe have several similarities, including offering solid value. However, each's value will depend primarily on what you're looking for in a home security system, as well as plan and equipment specifics. Both companies offer wide product selections and contract-free subscriptions. Both offer budget-friendly monthly monitoring plans with DIY and professional monitoring options.
Wyze vs. Ring | U.S. News
Our rankings, ratings, and product reviews are unbiased. We do not rank or rate products or services based on our financial relationships with the companies that produce them. Our in-house research team collects extensive information used in our evaluation process, although we may not cover all options available in the marketplace. See our full methodology. Wyze and Ring Alarm offer wide product selections and low-cost monthly monitoring plans that do not require a contract.
How To Forward Mail When Moving
If you’re planning an international move that will last a year or longer, you can request a permanent COA, but you must file it in person at your local USPS branch. If the international move’s only temporary (less than 12 months) a temporary COA is appropriate. Another option for those moving out of the country is a virtual mailbox service. This service provides you with a real street address, and all mail received is uploaded digitally for you to view.
How To File a Temporary Change of Address
To verify your identity when filing for a COA, you’ll need to provide forms of identification. If you choose to file in person at a USPS branch, bring current photo identification: either a state-issued driver’s license, state-issued identification card, U.S. passport, or Uniformed Services ID card (USID). If you bring a passport or USID, you’ll need a secondary form of identification: lease, mortgage, property deed, voter or vehicle registration, or home or car insurance card.
How Much Does a New Furnace Cost?
Size matters. If you don’t purchase the right size furnace for your home, it can run continuously and never fully heat your home. Factors that can influence furnace size include: House size and floor plan The number of windows Insulation quality Condition of ductwork To determine what size furnace your home needs, an HVAC contractor should perform a Manual J Load test. Usually, the larger the furnace, the higher the price.
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