Crime is an unfortunate fact of life in our world today. It is very important that you take preventative measures to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime. In 2006, there were nearly 2 million burglaries in the United States alone. The FBI reports that a residential home is burglarized once every 15 seconds. As frightening as these statistics may be, there are some very simple measures that will dramatically reduce the risk of your home being burglarized.



Secure Perimeter Doors


Always close and lock all exit doors to your home even when you are home. Do not rely on a simple doorknob lock. Invest in a quality dead bolt and a steel plate that will prevent thieves from prying open your door.


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Sliding Doors

If your sliding doors don't already have a pin-type lock, have one installed. You can also put a rod or wooden stick in the bottom door channel.


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Lighting is Important

Always leave outdoor lights, and at least one indoor light, on when you are not home so that it looks like the house is occupied.

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Don't Provide Cover

Keep bushes and landscaping trimmed so that they do not provide natural cover for a burglar.


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Know Who's at Your Door

Install peepholes or video intercom systems to identify visitors before opening your door. .

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Hide Keys Wisely

Try not to hide spare keys outside of your home and if you must, make sure they are very well hidden.


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When on Vacation

If you are going away for an extended time, have a neighbor or friend collect newspapers daily and keep an eye on your house. This is a better solution than having your mail stopped. The fewer the people that know you are going away the safer your home will be. Also if needed, have someone tend to your lawn.

You should also route your phone calls to a cell phone or alternative line because burglars often call a home first as a method to see if someone is there.

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Leave Car in Driveway

Park a car at all times in your driveway, especially when you are not at your house. Criminals target houses with empty driveways knowing there is a better chance no one is home.


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Protect Your Line

Phone lines are exposed on the outside of most houses which leaves them vulnerable to being cut. Criminals understand that most security systems send their signal over the phone line. Avoid this problem by investing in backup communication paths. (Ethernet or Cellular GSM)


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Keep Valuables in a Safe

Jewelry, money, and other valuables should always be stored in a security safe. If criminals can't find anything to take they are less likely to stick around.

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Smoke Detectors

Battery operated smoke detectors should be tested often to make sure they are functioning properly. Also, these detectors do not last forever. Every 5-7 years they should be replaced because they lose sensitivity. Make sure to never paint over or hang anything from these devices as it will affect how they function.

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