Are Security System Signs Really Effective? What the Research Says
It’s a common question for homeowners and renters alike: does that small security sign in the yard or the decal on the window truly make a difference in deterring potential burglars? You're invested in keeping your home and loved ones safe, perhaps by considering or already using an innovative solution like Kangaroo's smart home security. You deserve to know if these visible warnings pack a real punch.
At Kangaroo, we champion smart, accessible security for everyone. So, let's move beyond speculation and look at what compelling research and criminal insights reveal about the power of security system signs.
What Burglars and Research Reveal About Security Signs
The most telling evidence often comes directly from those who pose the threat. Several studies and surveys involving convicted burglars provide significant data on how visible security measures, including signs, influence their decisions.
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte Insights: A landmark study from UNC Charlotte's Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology, which surveyed over 400 incarcerated individuals convicted of burglary, unearthed critical findings (often highlighted by security industry reports and the Alarm Industry Research and Educational Foundation - AIREF):
A compelling 83% of burglars stated they would try to determine if an alarm system was present before attempting a break-in. This shows they are actively looking for signs of security.
Crucially, 60% confirmed they would choose an entirely different target if they encountered clear indicators of an alarm system.
Even if a burglary was initiated, the discovery of an alarm system was enough for about half to abandon the attempt, with another 31% saying they would sometimes retreat.
Signs as a Key Initial Filter: Further analysis from reputable security research outlets like Security.org, referencing UNC findings, notes that while approximately 25% of burglars might be deterred by security signs alone, this figure significantly increases when those signs are perceived to represent actual cameras and a functioning system. For instance, the presence of cameras (often advertised by signs) could deter around 53% of burglars. This strongly suggests that a sign is an excellent initial deterrent, but its power is amplified when it signals a comprehensive system.
Dramatically Lowered Risk with Systems: It's not just about signs, but the systems they represent. Data aggregated by sources like Alarms.org (and cited by many in the security industry) powerfully suggests that homes without security systems are reportedly 300% more likely to be targeted by burglars than homes protected by them. Your security sign is the first bold announcement that your home belongs in the safer category.
These statistics paint a vivid picture: visible indicators of a security system make a profound difference in a burglar's risk assessment and target selection.
The Psychology of Deterrence: Why Signs Work
These statistics are backed by straightforward behavioral psychology. Security signs and decals effectively:
Increase Perceived Risk: They signal a higher chance of alarms blaring, cameras recording, professional monitoring services being alerted, and ultimately, getting caught.
Elevate Perceived Effort: Overcoming a home with a security system is more complicated and time-consuming than targeting an unprotected one. Burglars often seek the path of least resistance.
Introduce Uncertainty: Even if a burglar has doubts, the sign plants a seed of uncertainty. Is it a silent alarm? Are police automatically dispatched? This doubt alone can be a powerful deterrent.
Signs: A Crucial Piece, But Not the Whole Puzzle
While the evidence clearly supports the effectiveness of security signs, their true power is unleashed when they represent a genuine, functioning security system. A sign without a system might deter the most casual opportunist, but a more determined intruder could call that bluff.
This is precisely where Kangaroo's approach to home security offers exceptional value. We provide affordable, DIY-friendly, and remarkably effective security systems that ensure your Kangaroo sign or decal is a true badge of protection. When you display our branding, it’s backed by:
Smart Motion + Entry Sensors: Receive instant mobile alerts if a door or window is breached.
Versatile Camera Options: Keep an eye on things, day or night, with our Video Doorbell Camera + Chime for your entryway, or the adaptable Indoor + Outdoor Cam for comprehensive coverage.
Optional Professional Monitoring: Elevate your protection with our Kangaroo Complete plan, offering 24/7 professional monitoring that can dispatch emergency services when every second counts.
A Kangaroo sign isn't merely a piece of plastic; it’s a clear declaration that your home is actively monitored by a modern, intelligent security solution.
Maximizing the Effectiveness of Your Security Signs
To ensure your security signs and decals are working optimally:
Visibility is Key: Place signs where they are easily seen from the street and at primary entry points (front door, back door, ground-floor windows).
Authenticity Matters: Always use the official signs and decals provided with your active security system, like those included with your Kangaroo kits.
Comprehensive Coverage: Don't limit yourself to one sign in the front yard. Window decals are highly effective for all accessible windows and secondary doors.
Keep Them Looking Credible: A well-maintained sign looks more imposing. Replace any that become significantly faded, damaged, or illegible.
Layer Your Defenses: Remember, signs are one vital component of a robust security strategy. Complement them with your active Kangaroo system, good outdoor lighting, and strong, reliable locks. Our Security Kits offer a great way to bundle these protective layers.
Read More:
Top 10 Essential Home Security Tips for 2025
Does Leaving a Light On Really Deter Burglars?
Do Fake Security Cameras Work? (Or Are They a Scam?)
The Clear Verdict: Security Signs Are a Smart Move
The research, combined with insights from law enforcement and even convicted burglars, strongly supports the effectiveness of security system signs as a deterrent. They serve as an unambiguous warning that your property is not an easy target.
When that warning is backed by an affordable, reliable, and intelligent security system from Kangaroo, you’re not just relying on hope – you're implementing a proven strategy to safeguard what's most important to you.
Ready to empower your home with visible deterrence and intelligent protection?
