Top 7 Home Security Mistakes Canadians Make—and How to Fix Them Fast

Across Toronto and the GTA, break-and-enters can unfold in under two minutes. Cameras capture faces and alarms record motion—but neither stop an intruder in the moment. The most common issue isn’t a lack of security technology; it’s relying on tools that react too slowly. Below are the seven mistakes we see most often—and the fixes that turn a vulnerable home into a ready one.

1) Relying on Cameras Alone

Cameras are witnesses, not defenders. They help with evidence after the fact, but they don’t deny access or visibility during a break-in.

Fix: Pair detection with active defence. The Iron Fog Core triggers in ~1 second and fills the space with dense, non-toxic fog in 15–20 seconds, blinding intruders and forcing retreat. Fog lingers for 30–45 minutes and naturally ventilates afterwards.

2) Delaying Alarm Response

Traditional alarm flows involve calls and dispatch queues. Every minute of delay is opportunity for a smash-and-grab.

Fix: Use systems that act on site. With Iron Fog VisionGuard, you can verify through the integrated camera, speak via two-way audio, and trigger fog instantly from the app, remote, or panic switch.

3) Ignoring Entry-Layer Protection

Most setups harden locks but ignore what happens after entry. Once the door opens, your valuables are visible and reachable.

Fix: Treat visibility as a security layer. Fog defence denies a clear line of sight to rooms and inventory the moment a threshold is crossed.

4) Overlooking Garage and Basement Access

Intruders often target low-visibility entries such as attached garages, side doors, or basement walkouts.

Fix: Combine motion lighting with strategic fog coverage. A single Iron Fog unit covers up to ~150 m³ (about 662 ft² at an 8' ceiling) with the C1 cartridge, or ~100 m³ with the filtered C1F variant for reduced residue. Place units where entry points meet main living spaces.

5) Forgetting Power and Readiness

A tripped breaker or unplugged adapter quietly takes systems offline.

Fix: Use surge-protected outlets and keep a fresh refill cartridge on hand. Iron Fog devices operate on DC 12V 3A with low standby power (≈0–24 W), and they do not require pre-heating—so they’re ready the moment you are.

6) Skipping Routine Testing

Unverified placement can leave blind spots or slow coverage.

Fix: Run safe seasonal tests with a spare cartridge to validate trigger paths and coverage. After testing, install a live cartridge so you remain protected immediately.

7) Assuming “It Won’t Happen Here”

Complacency is a risk multiplier—especially in quieter neighbourhoods where intruders expect slower responses.

Fix: Stay proactive with a DIY-friendly setup. Iron Fog mounts to a wall or ceiling, operates from −10 °C to 50 °C and 0–80% humidity, and is certified (CE, ISO 9001, independent non-toxic testing).

From Vulnerable to Ready

Security isn’t about fear—it’s about readiness. When someone crosses your threshold, every second counts. With Iron Fog, that second belongs to you.