Criminals prefer areas in which the residents do not look out for each other. For this reason, being a conscientious neighbor can vastly improve your home's security. Living alone can be especially frightening if you are concerned about home security. When you are alone at night, you can feel like you are particularly susceptible to a break in, regardless of the actual danger. To ease your mind, you should consider owning a dog. While many dogs are specially trained to provide security, any dog that barks at the presence of strangers can be an incredibly effective deterrent against crime. Moreover, a dog can provide you with the comfort of a companion so that you do not focus on potential danger any more than necessary. Although home security can be expensive, it does not have to be costly to be effective. LifeShield, Front Point, and other companies provide good wireless security that you can install yourself and don't cost a bundle. By using some basic common sense measures to protect yourself and your property, you can prevent danger from showing up at your door or window. Even if you are on a tight budget, you can take steps to ensure that you and your home are nearly as secure as the most fortified palaces.