Top 5 Home Security Myths in Tampa
Think your home is secure? Think again.
Most homeowners in Tampa unknowingly rely on outdated, ineffective, or completely false security practices. In this post, we’ll break down the top 5 home security myths we hear every day—and show you what actually works to keep your home safe.
Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or landlord in Tampa, this guide could be the difference between peace of mind and a costly break-in.
Table of Contents
Myth #1: “My Neighborhood Is Safe, So I Don’t Need to Worry”
Myth #2: “Deadbolts Are Enough”
Myth #3: “Security Cameras Alone Will Stop Burglars”
Myth #4: “Break-Ins Only Happen at Night”
Myth #5: “Smart Locks Aren’t as Secure as Traditional Ones”
What Really Works in Tampa
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Myth #1: “My Neighborhood Is Safe, So I Don’t Need to Worry”
It doesn’t matter if you live in Hyde Park, Carrollwood, South Tampa, or New Tampa — crime is opportunistic, not always targeted.
According to Tampa crime data, over 60% of residential break-ins occur in “quiet” suburban areas.
Reality: Even the safest ZIP codes experience thefts due to unlocked doors, outdated locks, and predictable routines.
What To Do:
Always lock doors and windows—even when home
Install visible deterrents (cameras, signage, motion lights)
Upgrade locks if you’ve lived in the home >2 years
Myth #2: “Deadbolts Are Enough”
Deadbolts are a great start, but not all are created equal. Basic hardware store locks are often:
Easy to bump open
Vulnerable to credit card bypass
Weak against kick-ins or crowbar attacks
Reality: Most break-ins take under 60 seconds—and weak locks make it easier.
What To Do:
Install Grade 1 deadbolts (commercial-grade)
Reinforce strike plates and door frames
Add a smart lock or keyless entry pad for layered access
Myth #3: “Security Cameras Alone Will Stop Burglars”
Surveillance helps—but cameras don’t lock doors. They record the crime; they don’t prevent it.
Reality: Most burglars wear hats and hoodies, and only 12–15% of home security footage actually leads to arrests.
What To Do:
Pair cameras with real deterrents:
Motion lights
Loud alarms
Strong physical locks
Place cameras above eye level, not hidden
Myth #4: “Break-Ins Only Happen at Night”
Actually, most home burglaries happen between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM when homeowners are at work or school.
Reality: Daytime crimes are common in Tampa—especially in areas with easy highway access (Brandon, Westshore, Town 'n' Country).
What To Do:
Use smart locks with remote control access
Install timers on lights and TVs
Avoid posting travel plans publicly
Myth #5: “Smart Locks Aren’t as Secure as Traditional Ones”
This one couldn’t be more wrong—when installed properly.
Reality: A properly installed smart lock is just as secure as a traditional one, with added benefits like:
Remote locking
One-time codes for visitors
Keyless entry for kids or guests
Real-time access logs
What To Do:
Choose high-quality smart locks (like Schlage, Yale, or Level Lock)
Install with a pro (we do this for Tampa homes every day)
Pair with deadbolt reinforcements
So, What Actually Keeps You Safe in Tampa?
- Layered protection: physical locks + visibility + smart access
- Updating locks after moving in
- Smart cameras + real deterrents
- Routine lock inspections (especially after 2+ years in the home)
- Education: knowing what real threats look like in your neighborhood
Book Your Free Home Security Check Today
We help Tampa homeowners every day with:
Residential lock upgrades
Smart lock installation
Emergency rekeying
Full-home security walkthroughs
- Call Now: (813) 534-2911
- Request Your Free Security Checklist: Lead Form
- DM Us on Instagram: @ProOnTheGoLocksmith
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Tampa’s Most Trusted Mobile Locksmith for Homeowners
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Based in Tampa, FL
(813) 534-2911
https://proonthegolocksmith.com/
