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Burglary Deterrents
Outsmarting Intruders
Looking for the best ways to protect your home and personal valuables
from burglars? In addition to having a home security system, there are
smart steps you can take to avoid being victimized.
Disguise Your Absence
Burglars are less likely to victimize a house that looks occupied or
is protected by a security system. Here are some ways to give the appearance
that someone is home:
- Keep electrical devices on. Program a timed device to automatically
turn your lights, stereo, or TV on and off at set periods during the
day or night.
- Keep the deliveries coming. Don't stop your mail or newspaper drops;
it signals you're away. Instead, ask a neighbor to pick up your deliveries.
- Keep a car in your driveway. If you are taking your vehicle on vacation,
ask a neighbor to park his or her car in your driveway.
- Ask a neighbor to perform maintenance. Have someone mow your lawn,
rake leaves, or shovel snow while you're away.
How to Keep Safe at Home
Did you know that 40 percent of home invasions occur because a door or
window was left unlocked? So, it is wise to:
- Lock doors and windows, especially when you're home alone.
- Secure sliding glass doors with pins to prevent both horizontal and
vertical movement, especially when you're away from home for extended
periods of time.
- Fix broken locks or windows and install deadbolts on doors leading outside.
- Replace all locks immediately upon moving into a new home.
Safe Measures for Greeting Visitors
- Install peepholes in all exterior doors. It's always a good idea to
look through your peephole viewer to see who's there before you open
the door.
- Make sure you request identification from sales or repair people before
you let them in. Never leave such representatives in your home unsupervised.
How to Keep Your Valuables Safe
- Store high-value items such as jewelry, furs and firearms in a small
closet with a solid-core door, a non-removable hinge and a deadbolt lock.
- Permanently mark your valuables with your driver's license or Social
Security number. Also, keep pictures and records of all marked objects
in a safe place.
- Keep important papers, valuable jewelry and large amounts of cash
in a safety deposit box.
- Keep gift-wrapped packages hidden from outside view.
- When you purchase new electronic equipment, do not advertise it. Break
down cartons before discarding in your trash.
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