Home Security Tips

BURGLARY PREVENTION

● Secure all windows and doors.
● Secure sliding glass doors with commercially available bars or locks, or put a wooden dowel or broom handle in the door track. Burglars look for sliding glass doors because they are the easiest to open.
● Secure roof openings and exhaust systems.
● Leave drapes open to a normal position.
● Engrave your Social Security number on all valuables that can be removed from the house.
● Always lock up ladders and tools. Don't give a burglar the resources to break into your home.
● Arrange to have the lawn mowed and the newspapers and mail rerouted or stopped when you  go on vacation.
● If you have recently purchased a television, stereo equipment, or other household item, do not throw the empty boxes in the alley garbage. This is a sure sign and strong temptation for burglars.
● Trim shrubbery to eliminate hiding spots for prowlers.
● Leave your car lights on until you have opened the garage door.
● Have a house key ready when you arrive home.
● Instruct family members about these security precautions and procedures.
● Have a trusted neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers every day while you are on vacation. Have a neighbor use your garbage cans occasionally. During the winter, arrange to have snow shoveled.

   Don't:

● Let the telephone go unanswered or give any inviting information over the phone, such as the fact that you are not at home during the day.
● Advertise valuables by making them easily visible through your windows.
● Leave a key outside the house.
● Don't place identification tags on your keys or key rings; if you lose them, you give potential burglars help.
● Leave notes on doors.
● Leave a porch or front foyer light on. It advertises that you are probably not at home.
● Leave a ladder outside.
● Enter your home if anything appears suspicious. Call the police from a neighbor's telephone.
● Don't lose your life trying to save items that can be replaced.

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