You don’t have to be best friends, but having a basic, friendly relationship with a few neighbours is extremely useful. People who know your face and your normal patterns are more likely to notice if something looks off – a gate left open, strange activity at odd hours, a delivery lying outside for too long.
If they have your number, they can call or message you when you’re out and something doesn’t seem right. You can do the same for them. This informal “looking out for each other” is something no camera or alarm system fully replaces.
Neighbours can also help with small things while you’re away – taking in parcels, adjusting curtains, or just being visibly around the entrance.
A bit of community connection often turns into a quiet, natural security network.