Physical security equipment, such as alarms and locks, is absolutely worthless unless used. The key component in any security system most likely to fail is the human one. The second fundamental step toward home crime prevention is to be a good neighbor. A cooperative neighborhood can increase everyone's collective home security with very little individual effort or time. Finally, make an effort to cooperate with and support your law enforcement provider.
Security is never convenient, and convenience usually degrades security.
Only you can decide what is the appropriate mix of security and convenience for you. Others are less obvious, and many are counter-intuitive. In University Housing and some rental properties, at least some of these choices have been made for you, and there are consequences should you avoid or defeat the security procedures and devices, which have been installed, for your protection. In a private residence, you and your family can choose to have as much or as little security as you are comfortable with. In any setting, choosing inappropriately can be very costly in terms not only of assets, but also in personal injury.