Locks vs. Alarms: Which One Stops the Break-In?

When it comes to protecting your home, most people rely on one of two things: locks or alarm systems. But when faced with a real break-in, which of these actually stops the intruder? And more importantly, which one helps keep you and your family safer?

Locks: Your First Line of Defence

Locks have been the standard in home security for centuries. A good quality deadbolt can absolutely slow down or deter someone from entering your home. But here’s the truth:

• Locks only work if they’re used properly. A surprising number of break-ins happen because a door or window was left unlocked.
• Even strong locks can be picked, bumped, or forced open, especially if the intruder is experienced.
• Once a lock is broken, no one is alerted, you may not even know your home’s been entered until it’s too late.

While they’re essential, locks are passive. They only work until someone decides to break them.

Alarms: Your 24/7 Watchdog

Unlike locks, a smart alarm system is active security. It doesn’t just try to block access, it responds. The moment a door or window is opened, or motion is detected, the system reacts, and so do you.

Here’s what makes alarms powerful:

• Immediate deterrent: A loud siren can scare off an intruder before they get far.
• Real-time alerts: You get a notification right away, so you can act fast.
• 24/7 professional monitoring: If you’re asleep, at work, or on vacation, the monitoring centre can alert emergency services on your behalf.
• Smart integration: Cameras, sensors, and even lights can be connected to give you full control from your phone.

Think of alarms as your digital watchdog. They don’t just wait for something to happen, they react the moment it does.

Locks vs. Alarms: The Real Answer

So, which one actually stops the break-in? Here’s the honest answer:

• Locks delay the intruder.
  
• Alarms catch them in the act.

In most cases, a break-in takes less than 60 seconds. Locks might slow the person down, but without an alarm, you won’t even know what’s happening. On the other hand, an alarm system increases the chance that the intruder runs before doing real damage.

According to Statistics Canada, homes with security systems are far less likely to be successfully burglarized, especially when those systems are monitored.

The Best Protection? Both.

A strong lock is your front-line defence. A smart alarm system is your backup, your alert system, and your connection to help. Combined, they offer the best possible protection for your home and family.

Protect Your Home the Smarter Way

Why gamble with your security? With Alarm Guard, you get smart systems, instant alerts, and 24/7 monitoring backed by experts who care.

Call Alarm Guard today at 1-866-282-3331 to learn how we can protect what matters most, so you don’t have to choose between locks and alarms. You can have both.