Security Myth Busting
10 Home Security Myths That Put Your Family at Risk
Updated April 2026 | By Berkley Security Inc. | 8 min read
Quick Answer:
The most dangerous security myths include believing that security signs alone deter burglars, dogs replace alarm systems, leaving lights on works, and that burglars only target wealthy neighborhoods. Data shows homes without security systems are 300% more likely to be burglarized than homes with monitored alarm systems. Feeling safe is not the same as being safe.
After 45+ years installing security systems across Mississippi and Louisiana, we have heard every myth. Some are harmless. Others give homeowners a false sense of security that leaves their families genuinely vulnerable. Here are the 10 myths we encounter most often, with the data that disproves them.
Myth #1: "A security sign in the yard is enough"
Danger Level: High
Reality: A sign without a system is a bluff. Experienced burglars check for visible sensors, camera housings, and keypad lights. If they see a sign but no equipment, they know there is no real system. A sign WITH a working system is effective because the burglar sees confirmation of a real threat. Read more about security signs as deterrents.
Myth #2: "My dog will protect me"
Danger Level: High
Reality: A loud dog provides some deterrence, but dogs do not call 911, do not record evidence, can be neutralized with treats, and are not always home. A monitored alarm system dispatches police whether you (or your dog) are home or not.
Myth #3: "Leaving lights on deters burglars"
Danger Level: Medium
Reality: Lights on 24/7 signal nobody is home. No occupied house has every light on all night. Smart lighting on randomized timers is better because it mimics natural patterns. Combine with a smart lighting security strategy.
Myth #4: "Burglars only target wealthy homes"
Danger Level: High
Reality: FBI data shows burglary rates are consistent across income levels. Burglars target opportunity: unlocked doors, no visible security, predictable absence. Your modest home in Byram is targeted as often as a large home in Madison.
Myth #5: "Burglaries happen at night"
Danger Level: Medium
Reality: The majority of residential burglaries occur between 10am and 3pm when homes are most likely empty. Burglars prefer daytime because detection by neighbors is less likely when activity appears normal and homeowners are at work.
Myth #6: "A deadbolt is all I need"
Danger Level: High
Reality: Most residential door frames can be kicked open in 1-2 kicks because the strike plate is attached with half-inch screws into soft pine. Upgrade to 3-inch screws and add a reinforced strike plate. Better yet, add a door sensor that triggers an alarm before entry is complete.
Myth #7: "Cameras alone are enough"
Danger Level: Medium
Reality: Cameras record evidence but do not prevent or respond to a crime in progress. By the time you review footage, the burglar is long gone. Cameras work best when paired with monitored sensors that trigger real-time police dispatch.
Myth #8: "I live in a safe neighborhood"
Danger Level: Medium
Reality: Low-crime neighborhoods are still targeted because they often have more valuable items and less visible security. Additionally, "safe neighborhood" statistics lag reality. A new pattern can emerge before data reflects it.
Myth #9: "I can just use my phone to monitor"
Danger Level: High
Reality: Self-monitoring means you are the monitoring center. If you are asleep, in a meeting, in a movie, or your phone is dead, nobody responds. Professional monitoring provides 24/7 trained operators who dispatch police within seconds, every time, regardless of what you are doing.
Myth #10: "Security systems are too expensive"
Danger Level: High
Reality: Basic systems start at $199 with monitoring from $25/month. After insurance discounts of $70-$280/year, monitoring often costs less than $15/month net. That is less than one streaming subscription for actual life safety.
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Get Your Free AssessmentFrequently Asked Questions
Do security signs alone deter burglars?
Not reliably. Experienced burglars check for real equipment. A sign without a system is a bluff. A sign WITH a system is effective.
Do dogs prevent burglaries?
Loud dogs provide some deterrence but do not call 911, record evidence, or work when not home. They supplement security, they do not replace it.
Does leaving lights on work?
Lights on 24/7 signal no one is home. Smart lighting on randomized timers is better. A visible security system is best.
Do burglars only target wealthy homes?
No. Burglary rates are consistent across income levels. The deciding factor is vulnerability and opportunity, not home value.
Are most burglaries committed by strangers?
Many have some connection: acquaintances, former workers, neighborhood connections. They know your schedule and whether you have a system.
Is a deadbolt enough?
No. Most door frames can be kicked in. Upgrade to 3-inch screws, reinforced strike plate, and a door sensor connected to a monitored alarm.
Facts, Not Myths
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