House was robbed tonight (window, detector, cost, vent)

[Packrat1]

First and formost you need to get insurance even before the alarm system. Why, because even with an alarm, video camera system you will still can be burlarized. Other posters have described burglars going in ignoring the alarm and taking items and being out in 5 min.

The next thing you need to do is write down both the model and serial numbers of your items when you get back on your feet with new stuff.

Become great friends with neighbors on both sides of you or at least attempt to. Get their phone numbers and give them yours if you think they are trustworthy. Start a neighborhood block watch and figure out who the good guys and bad guys are in your neighborhood via internet databases.

Start looking for your stuff on Craigslist and Ebay and local pawn shops. Don't plan on receiving any follow up by the Police it just won't happen in most cases.

[jet757f]

I see Strikemaster mentioned and after seeing this will try to get this on my doors before the same thing happens.
What can you do about glass patio doors?

[Caltovegas]

Get the rolling shutters but it's not cheap. Here's some examples. Just a place I came across doing a search.Rolling Shutters and Drop Shades | SUMMER SPECIALS | Residential and Commercial Rolling Shutters and Drop Shades |

[SoCalCpl2]

Clear Mylar blast shields for the Patio doors.. They are put on the inside with a frame that goes onto your existing door frame, they are crystal clear so you can see out and in them, or they have the smoked ones that make it hard to see in, they will hold up even if the windows are knocked out.. AND they probably cost less than the roll up shutters and look a hell of a lot better....

[Caltovegas]

Of course there's always Rover. I wonder if dog owners homes have a lower burglary rate?

[Trash Can]

Originally Posted by aardogfsu

Looking for the best (non-monthly charged ADT nonsense) house securing self-setup available...enormous blazing siren of an alarm, cameras etc.

Home Security Systems from SimpliSafe

[notoriouskelly]

First- Sorry for the intrusion of your sanctuary; I understand how it feels.

I like the Simplisafe or similar that would alert ME, not an alarm company.

I have cameras all around but you need a recorder (DVR) that is not also easily stolen; you can't keep people from breaking in but you Can see who did it.

And mount a couple cameras LOW so you don't just see the top of a hoodie (like on all those store cams).

Don't take it personal; dirtbags just don't wanna work for what they get..

[MSchu]

Originally Posted by SoCalCpl2

Clear Mylar blast shields for the Patio doors.. They are put on the inside with a frame that goes onto your existing door frame, they are crystal clear so you can see out and in them, or they have the smoked ones that make it hard to see in, they will hold up even if the windows are knocked out.. AND they probably cost less than the roll up shutters and look a hell of a lot better....

post info if you actually have it.

[Clarkcty]

Originally Posted by Willy702

Not to beat you down further because being robbed really sucks, but how do you not have insurance?

Yes and if I remember correctly, the OP has mentioned in the past he has properties around town. I only have a 2 bedroom condo but every room in my condo is covered by insurance.

[jtjtjtjt]

Originally Posted by Trash Can

Home Security Systems from SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe looks good.

One final component I would want is a front door video camera and intercom.