There is no price on peace of mind when it comes to protecting your home.
But there are a few things you can do to make your property safer for less than $50.
One of the best ways is to put a deadbolt on a side door. Locksmith Jim Lang says that's one fo the first parts of a home burglars try to break into.
"They don't want to go through the front door and have everyone in the neighborhood see them," he said.
Lang said thieves can use a credit card to pry open a door with a basic lock, but a deadbolt costs $20. He also spends an extra $1 for three-inch nails to make the door stronger, so burglars can't kick it down.
Lang also suggested $5 pins to lock sliding glass doors, and a $7 window lock to keep burglars from opening vented windows.
La Mesa Police Sgt. Katy Lynch said it's also important to keep the area your front door visible. A peep-hole to see out the door should cost about $7.
The La Mesa police has a free crime prevention program, in which officers will walkthrough homes giving advice on how to better protect them.
Chula Vista PD does not, but a spokesman says officers attend neighborhood watch and community meetings. 10News has reached out to San Diego Police and the Sheriffs' Department. We will update this story when we hear back.
