Crime Prevention - Home Security

They say that perception is everything. A home that appears to be occupied is far less likely 
to be burglarized than one that is not. Whether your on vacation or just out shopping, take the 
time to follow some of these suggestions to help avoid becoming a statistic.  

 

Keep track of your keys	Do not leave a key under the doormat, flower pot, or on a window ledge. This is the first place burglars will look!
Keep garage doors closed and locked	If you are going to be away for a while, disconnect electric garage door openers or run a bar through the door track to prevent it from opening. A padlock will also work.
Window and door locks	Even when at home or just out for a walk, be sure to lock your windows and doors.
Park a car in your driveway	While your away, keep a car parked in your driveway, or ask a neighbor if they can keep a car in your driveway. This will give the appearance of an occupied home.
Have landscaping and exterior kept up	A house that looks neglected is an indication that the house is unoccupied.
Don't let deliveries accumulate	Have a neighbor or relative pick up any newspapers, deliveries, mail etc., that might accumulate and give the appearance that no one is home.
Burglar alarm system	Be sure to activate your burglar alarm system. You should make this a habit whenever you leave the house!
Don't keep valuable jewelry in the house	Keep all of your valuable jewelry out of the house. If possible, keep it in a safety deposit box. Do not leave valuables in the master bedroom. This is the first place burglars will look.
Leave a radio or TV on	Connect a radio or a television set to a timer so that it turns on at different times.
Use automatic timers	Use automatic timers throughout the house, be sure not to leave outside lights on during the day, only at night.
Use motion sensor lighting on exterior of house	Lights equipped with motion detectors will illuminate the area should someone pass by it.
Advise neighbors and police of your travel plans	Let your neighbors and police department know that you'll be away so that they may make periodic checks of your house. Also provide them with emergency phone numbers should they need to get in touch with you or a relative.
Remember to lock your car doors	Do not leave your keys or key fobs in the vehicles.
Beware of scams.	Do not give out any personal information without verifying the requesting source.