Nighttime Home Security Checklist

Most break-ins happen at night because people assume the house is “shut down” and forget to lock or check obvious weak points. This checklist closes those gaps before you go to bed.

For outdoor-specific inspection steps, see Outdoor Security Walkthrough.

1. Doors and Entry Points

• [ ] Lock every exterior door (don’t trust “I thought it was locked”)
• [ ] Ensure deadbolts are fully engaged
• [ ] Lock interior garage-to-home door
• [ ] Check pet doors for secure closure

2. Windows and Sliding Doors

• [ ] Lock all ground-floor windows
• [ ] Insert security bars/dowels into sliding door tracks
• [ ] Verify windows fully latch—no partial closures
• [ ] Close blinds or curtains for privacy

3. Lighting and Visibility

• [ ] Turn on porch and driveway lights
• [ ] Enable motion-activated backyard lights
• [ ] Ensure pathway lights are functioning

4. Alarm and Camera Systems

• [ ] Arm your alarm system (home or stay mode)
• [ ] Verify sensors on doors and windows show “closed”
• [ ] Check camera feeds for proper night vision
• [ ] Confirm notifications and alerts are enabled

5. Vehicles and Garage Area

• [ ] Lock vehicles parked outside
• [ ] Remove garage openers from vehicles
• [ ] Close and lock garage door
• [ ] Ensure driveway is lit or covered by cameras

6. Yard and Perimeter

• [ ] Ensure all gates are latched or locked
• [ ] Bring valuables (bikes, tools) indoors
• [ ] Verify side-yard access is secured

7. Inside-the-Home Checks

• [ ] Turn off stove and small appliances
• [ ] Ensure candles or incense are fully extinguished
• [ ] Keep hallways free of tripping hazards
• [ ] Stage a phone or flashlight at bedside

Nighttime security is about removing the easy mistakes—unlocked doors, dark corners, inactive alarms. Handle this list and you shut down 90% of the opportunities burglars rely on.