Security & Defense
Basic Home Security & Defense
Protect your household with layered security, safer daily routines, and a calm emergency response plan focused on avoiding confrontation.
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Video / Training Content
Fortress America Academy
Basic Home Security & Defense
Lesson 1 of 6
Your Home Security Walkthrough
8 min · Spot weak points and prioritize practical improvements.
Walk around your property in daylight with another household member. Check exterior doors, accessible windows, garage access, outdoor lighting, and whether your house number is visible to emergency responders. Repeat your lighting check after dark from a safe location.
Use layers: deter unwanted access, delay entry, detect a problem, and respond safely. No lock, camera, or alarm guarantees protection; combine equipment with consistent habits.
Keep paths clear and trim vegetation that hides entrances without removing needed privacy. Record issues by urgency and cost. Renters should get permission before alterations and report broken shared-entry locks to management.
Keep the completed worksheet private: it describes your home's vulnerabilities. Do not post floor plans, access codes, or security blind spots publicly.
Put it into practice
Recommended Gear
Watch & Learn
Training Videos
Hand-picked videos from trusted public safety organizations that support this course.
On Patrol: Crime Prevention
Source: Queensland Police
CALLING 911 - 3 Tips for an emergency call to the Sacramento Police Department
Source: Sacramento Police Department
Have Two Ways Out
Source: U.S. Fire Administration
Making a Home Fire Escape Plan
Source: NFPA Kids — National Fire Protection Association
Knowledge Check
Final Assessment
Score 80% or higher to pass and earn your certificate. Finish every lesson first for the best result.
1. What is the purpose of layered home security?
2. What must every security upgrade preserve?
3. How should you protect camera and alarm accounts?
4. An unexpected visitor claims to be from a utility. What is safest?
5. If you suspect an intruder, what is the priority?
6. How should a beginner family drill be conducted?