Your home is your sanctuary, and keeping it safe for your loved ones is important. Unfortunately, a burglary can happens every 26 seconds and property crime costs victims $15.8 billion annually. Home break-ins are among the most common types of property crime in the country. The following can help deter prospective burglars:

Alarm system. An alarm system can help deter burglars. A variety of professional systems are available, including those with motion detectors and cameras. Some systems with security cameras also allow you to remotely view rooms in your home via an app, providing additional peace of mind when you are away.

Doorbell cameras. Monitor who comes to your home in real time. Consider cameras with a wide field of vision and motion detection. Two-way talk features may be helpful if you frequently receive deliveries or packages and wish to communicate with delivery people without opening your door. Some doorbell cameras also include a built-in siren to deter would-be intruders or package thieves.

Secure doors and windows. Ground-floor windows are the second most common access point. If you do not have the following installed, consider adding these features:

• A deadbolt with at least a 1-inch bolt on all entry doors.
• A metal strike plate.
• Solid core or metal doors.

Be sure to close and lock open windows when you leave the room.

Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. A residential fire occurs every 90 seconds in the United States. Install smoke alarms inside and outside sleeping areas, outside your kitchen, and on every level of your home. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once per year. Place a fire extinguisher on each level of your home, and keep one easily accessible in your kitchen. The right safety equipment can give you and your family a head start to escape in the event of a fire, reducing the risk for a serious injury or fatality.

Childproofing with baby safety gates and cabinet locks. If you have small children, consider how you can best childproof your home to minimize the risk of accidents. Once your baby starts walking, for example, a baby gate can be part of your childproofing strategy to keep your home safe. Baby gates can be used at the top and bottom of stairs as well as between rooms to restrict access, blocking access to areas such as the kitchen, bathrooms, or other off-limit areas of your home. For further protection, use safety locks on kitchen and bathroom cabinets to prevent curious children from opening them.

Emergency first aid kit. A well-stocked first-aid kit can help your family be prepared for accidents and injuries. The American Red Crossrecommends keeping a first aid kit in an easily accessible location in your home. You can buy ready-made kits or create your own at home. Recommended items to include are first aid supplies such as bandages, compresses, antiseptic wipes, antibacterial cream, non-latex gloves, an emergency blanket, sterile gauze pads, and an oral thermometer. Include personal items such as critical medications and emergency phone numbers.