Batten Safe’s buyer’s guides help you choose the right security and emergency products based on expert testing, real user data, and your specific needs. Whether protecting your home, family, or digital life, our guides analyze 50+ products per category to recommend the best options for different situations and budgets.

Every 26 seconds, a home is burglarized in America. Power outages have increased 64% since 2015. Identity theft affects 1 in 3 Americans annually. These aren’t just statistics – they represent real threats to your family’s safety and security.

At Batten Safe, we’ve analyzed over 2,000 security and emergency products to create comprehensive buyer’s guides that cut through marketing hype and deliver honest, expert-backed recommendations. Our team includes former U.S. Cyber Command officers, 20-year Navy SEALs, and industry veterans with 40+ years of security experience – all working to make security simple for everyday families.

Why Trust Our Guides?

  • 50+ hours of testing per product category
  • Real-world scenarios evaluated by security professionals
  • Price tracking across major retailers for best value
  • No bias – we test products from all major brands
  • Updated monthly with new products and pricing

Cyber Security Buyer’s Guides

🔒 Digital Security

Cybercrime costs Americans $7 billion annually, with a cyber attack occurring every 39 seconds. Identity theft affects 33% of Americans, making digital security as crucial as physical home protection.

How to Buy a Password Manager

Security audits, family sharing features, and emergency access options compared across 15 services.

How to Buy VPN Services

Speed tests, privacy policies analyzed, and streaming compatibility verified across 30+ VPNs.

How to Buy Identity Theft Protection

Coverage comparisons, restoration services, and real response time testing with major providers.

How to Buy Antivirus Software

Detection rates, system impact, and ransomware protection tested with real malware samples.

How to Buy Parental Control Software

Age-appropriate filtering, screen time management, and location tracking features compared.

How to Buy Internet Security Suites

Comprehensive protection packages tested against real-world threats and system impact.

💻 Digital Infrastructure

With remote work increasing 140% since 2020, home networks have become prime targets for cybercriminals. Securing your digital infrastructure protects both personal data and professional assets from increasingly sophisticated attacks.

How to Buy Secure Routers

Firmware security, VPN compatibility, and penetration testing results for home networks.

How to Buy Network Security Appliances

Firewall capabilities, intrusion detection, and small business vs home use comparisons.

How to Buy Encrypted Storage Devices

Hardware encryption standards, speed testing, and data recovery options evaluated.

How to Buy Backup Solutions

Local vs cloud options, ransomware protection, and automated backup testing results.

Home Security Buyer’s Guides

🏠 Home Security Systems

With 77% of crimes being property-related and burglaries occurring every 26 seconds, protecting your home has never been more critical. Modern security systems reduce burglary risk by up to 300% and can lower insurance premiums by 15-20%.

How to Buy a Home Security System

Compare professional vs DIY systems, monitoring options, and real costs. Covers SimpliSafe, ADT, Vivint, and 12 other top systems.

How to Buy Security Cameras

Indoor vs outdoor, wired vs wireless, AI detection features. Reviews of 50+ cameras from Ring, Arlo, Eufy, and more.

How to Buy Outdoor Security Cameras

Weather resistance, night vision, and installation tips for perimeter protection. Tested in extreme conditions.

How to Buy Video Doorbells

Package theft prevention, visitor screening, and smart home integration. Compares 15 models with real-world testing.

How to Buy Smart Door Locks

Keyless entry options, security standards, and emergency access methods. Reviews include installation difficulty ratings.

🚨 Home Safety & Monitoring

Home fires kill 2,620 people annually, while carbon monoxide poisoning sends 50,000 to the ER. Proper detection and monitoring systems provide critical early warnings that save lives.

How to Buy Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Sensor types, interconnected systems, and 10-year battery options tested for reliability.

How to Buy Water Leak Detectors

Smart sensors that prevent $10,000+ in water damage. Compares standalone vs whole-home systems.

How to Buy Home Safes

Fire ratings, burglary resistance, and biometric options tested by security professionals.

How to Buy Fire Extinguishers

Class ratings explained, maintenance requirements, and proper placement strategies for homes.

How to Buy Baby Monitors

Video quality, breathing sensors, and security encryption tested to protect your family’s privacy.

👤 Personal Safety

Personal safety extends beyond home security. With 810,000 children reported missing annually and 5.4 million seniors living with Alzheimer’s, having the right safety tools provides peace of mind for vulnerable family members.

How to Buy Personal Safety Alarms

Decibel levels, activation methods, and legal considerations for self-defense devices.

How to Buy GPS Trackers for Kids

Real-time tracking accuracy, battery life, and age-appropriate features for child safety.

How to Buy GPS Trackers for Pets

Waterproof ratings, escape alerts, and coverage area testing for different pet sizes.

How to Buy Elderly Monitoring Systems

Fall detection, medication reminders, and dignity-preserving options for aging parents.

How to Buy Pepper Spray

Legal requirements by state, spray patterns, and safety features for responsible carry.

🔐 Advanced Home Security

While basic security systems deter casual criminals, 23% of burglars admit to targeting specific homes after surveillance. Advanced security measures create multiple layers of protection that stop determined intruders.

How to Buy Security Window Film

Shatter resistance testing, UV protection, and one-way privacy options for vulnerable windows.

How to Buy Driveway Alarms

Sensor types, range testing, and false alarm reduction in various weather conditions.

How to Buy Security Lights

Motion detection zones, smart features, and light pollution considerations for neighborhoods.

How to Buy Home Security Signs and Decals

Deterrent effectiveness, legal considerations, and strategic placement for maximum impact.

How to Buy Door Security Bars

Force resistance testing, adjustability, and compatibility with different door types.

How to Buy Window Security Bars

Quick-release mechanisms, building codes, and aesthetic options for visible protection.

Emergency Buyer’s Guides

⚡ Emergency Power Solutions

Power outages affect over 50 million U.S. households annually, with blackouts lasting 8+ hours on average. Having backup power isn’t just convenience – it’s essential for medical devices, food preservation, and communication during emergencies.

How to Buy Emergency Generators

Fuel types, wattage calculations, and safety features. Includes noise level testing and runtime comparisons.

How to Buy Portable Solar Power Systems

Complete solar setups for off-grid power. Real-world charging times and capacity tests included.

How to Buy Solar Generators

Silent, fuel-free backup power options. Compares Jackery, Goal Zero, EcoFlow with actual load testing.

How to Buy Portable Power Stations

Battery backup for essential devices. Includes capacity degradation testing over time.

How to Buy Solar Panels for Emergency Use

Portable vs permanent panels, efficiency ratings, and real output in various weather conditions.

🍽️ Emergency Food & Water

73% of households lack adequate emergency water storage, and 60% don’t have the recommended 72-hour food supply. Natural disasters and supply chain disruptions have shown the critical importance of food and water preparedness.

How to Buy Emergency Food Supplies

Nutritional analysis, shelf life testing, and taste comparisons of 30+ emergency food brands.

How to Buy Long-Term Food Storage

25+ year storage options, rotation systems, and cost-per-meal calculations for families.

How to Buy Emergency Water Storage

Container types, treatment options, and space-saving solutions. Includes contamination prevention tips.

How to Buy Water Filtration Systems

Gravity, pump, and straw filters tested with contaminated water samples. EPA standard compliance verified.

How to Buy Water Purification Tablets

Chemical options, taste testing, and effectiveness against various pathogens. Travel-friendly options included.

📡 Emergency Communication & Medical

When disasters strike, 70% of cell towers can fail within the first 24 hours. Having alternative communication and proper medical supplies can be the difference between getting help and being stranded.

How to Buy Emergency Radios

NOAA weather alerts, hand-crank options, and reception testing in various conditions.

How to Buy Satellite Communicators

Global coverage maps, message costs, and SOS feature comparisons for remote adventures.

How to Buy First Aid Kits

OSHA compliance, family vs individual kits, and expiration date tracking systems reviewed.

How to Buy Emergency Medical Supplies

Beyond basic first aid – tourniquets, chest seals, and trauma supplies for serious emergencies.

How to Buy Trauma Kits

Military-grade supplies for life-threatening injuries. Training requirements and proper use explained.

🚗 Vehicle Emergency

Over 6 million car accidents occur annually in the U.S., and 13% of drivers experience a breakdown each year. Being prepared for vehicle emergencies can prevent minor issues from becoming life-threatening situations.

How to Buy Car Emergency Kits

Climate-specific items, compact storage solutions, and multi-tool options for roadside safety.

How to Buy Jump Starters

Peak amp ratings, safety features, and multi-function models tested in extreme temperatures.

How to Buy Emergency Car Escape Tools

Window breakers, seatbelt cutters, and accessibility considerations for all family members.

How to Buy Roadside Emergency Supplies

Reflective triangles, flares, and visibility gear meeting DOT safety standards.

🎒 Emergency Preparedness Gear

Only 39% of Americans have an emergency plan, and even fewer have the gear to execute it. Quality preparedness equipment ensures you can handle the critical first 72 hours of any disaster when help may not be available.

How to Buy Bug Out Bags

Weight distribution, durability testing, and essential item checklists from survival experts.

How to Buy Survival Multi-Tools

Steel quality, function counts, and real-world usability tests of 40+ multi-tool models.

How to Buy Emergency Flashlights

Lumen output, battery options, and durability testing including drop and water resistance.

How to Buy Emergency Lanterns

Area lighting, runtime comparisons, and solar charging capabilities for extended outages.

How to Buy Weather Alert Radios

SAME technology, alert customization, and backup power options for severe weather warnings.

How to Buy Two-Way Radios

Range testing, privacy codes, and FCC licensing requirements for emergency communication.

🌪️ Natural Disaster Preparation

Natural disasters affected 1 in 3 Americans in 2024, with damages exceeding $92 billion. Regional preparedness for specific threats – from hurricanes to earthquakes – requires specialized equipment and planning.

How to Buy Hurricane Preparation Supplies

Storm shutters, generators, and waterproof storage tested against Category 5 conditions.

How to Buy Flood Barriers

Sandbag alternatives, door dams, and whole-home solutions with deployment time testing.

How to Buy Emergency Heating Systems

Safe indoor heaters, fuel storage, and carbon monoxide prevention for winter storms.

How to Buy Earthquake Emergency Kits

Specialized supplies for seismic events, including gas shutoff tools and structural safety items.

How to Buy Tornado Shelters

Above vs below ground options, FEMA standards, and installation requirements explained.

How to Buy Sandbags for Flooding

Traditional vs polymer alternatives, proper placement techniques, and quantity calculations.

🏕️ Outdoor & Survival

Over 600 hikers require search and rescue annually, often due to inadequate preparation. Whether for recreation or emergency evacuation, having proper outdoor survival gear can mean the difference between adventure and tragedy.

How to Buy Camping Survival Gear

Weight vs durability trade-offs, multi-use items, and gear tested in extreme conditions.

How to Buy Emergency Shelters

Mylar blankets to family tents, setup times, and weather resistance ratings compared.

How to Buy Fire Starting Tools

Ferro rods, waterproof matches, and modern alternatives tested in wet conditions.

How to Buy Survival Knives

Blade steel analysis, handle ergonomics, and versatility testing by outdoor professionals.

How to Buy Emergency Blankets

Heat retention testing, durability comparisons, and reusable vs disposable options.

How to Buy Survival Food Kits

Calorie density, taste testing, and nutritional analysis of portable meal options.

🔦 Specialty Emergency Items

Beyond basic supplies, specialized emergency equipment addresses specific scenarios that standard kits miss. From sanitation during extended outages to maintaining nutrition without refrigeration, these items fill critical gaps in preparedness plans.

How to Buy Emergency Toilets

Portable options, waste management systems, and dignity-preserving solutions for extended outages.

How to Buy Solar Chargers

Panel efficiency, charging speeds, and durability testing in various weather conditions.

How to Buy Hand Crank Generators

Power output testing, ergonomics, and realistic expectations for human-powered energy.

How to Buy Emergency Stoves

Fuel efficiency, indoor safety ratings, and multi-fuel compatibility for cooking options.

How to Buy MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)

Civilian vs military options, shelf life verification, and nutritional adequacy testing.

How to Buy Freeze-Dried Food

Rehydration testing, taste comparisons, and long-term storage considerations for families.

💡 Money-Saving Insight: The average family spends $3,000+ on security and emergency products over 5 years. Using our guides to choose the right products the first time saves an average of $1,200 in avoided mistakes and replacements.

Why Batten Safe Buyer’s Guides Are Different

Unlike generic review sites that simply aggregate Amazon reviews, our guides represent hundreds of hours of hands-on testing by security professionals. Our team includes:

  • Former U.S. Cyber Command Officers who evaluate digital security products against military-grade standards
  • 20-Year Navy SEALs who test emergency and survival gear in real-world conditions
  • 40-Year Security Industry Veterans who understand what actually deters criminals
  • Certified Emergency Management Professionals who verify products meet disaster response standards

We purchase products with our own funds, test them in realistic scenarios, and provide honest assessments – including when popular products fail to meet their claims. Our goal isn’t to sell you the most expensive option, but to help you find the right solution for your specific situation and budget.

Your Next Steps

Start with the guide that addresses your most pressing security concern. Each guide includes:

  • Quick recommendations if you need answers fast
  • Detailed comparisons to understand your options
  • Cost breakdowns including hidden fees and long-term expenses
  • Installation guidance with realistic time estimates
  • Maintenance schedules to protect your investment

Bottom Line:

Every guide on this page represents 50+ hours of testing and analysis to save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading existing systems, our expert-tested recommendations ensure you get reliable protection without overpaying or under-protecting what matters most.