Hardening the home for defense

[abigdiesel]

Something that would help to harden a home and protect your family is to have a home defense system/family pet.  One of the best deterrents for a home invasion is a dogs bark, or even the sight of one, especially a big one.  There are a great number of medium to large breeds that are great for this purpose; German Shepards, rottweilers, dobermans, and airedales all make great guard/family dogs.

just a thought.

[JeffDavis]

I have 2 dogs, a Chihuahua and a small mix breed hunting dog. They are very alert for any noises at night and make a decent racket if not immediately calmed down.
To update the thread:

I am considering 2 fire doors from Lowes and 2 storm doors as well. The storm doors are smash resistant glass and will allow for a tax credit for next year's 1040,
while the fire doors are pretty stout as well. I am looking at top and bottom dead bolts as well as the traditional dead bolt. I think I want Schlage locks as I have heard
good things about their reliability & security.

Still looking at window defenses. Might be looking into hurricane shutters for external security. Problem is, the tax refund will only be so much and I keep finding things I need to get or fix!

This will probably be an ongoing project so I plan on updating the thread as things develop.

Thanks for all the great suggestions so far, keep 'em coming!