Ten Steps to Home SecurityAccording to the U.S. Department of Justice, nearly 30 of every 1,000 households in the U.S. were burglarized in 2004. Such statistics may not induce you to install iron bars on your windows and hire a 24-hour security guard, but they should compel us to take home security seriously. After all, it takes only one robbery for you or your loved ones to lose your most valued possessions. Taking these easy steps can ensure that you're doing all you can to prevent burglary.1. Invest in Solid Doors, Locks and WindowsThis is the most important step you can take to protect yourself against home theft. Make sure all exterior doors are made of metal or solid wood with shatterproof windows and locks that cannot be picked. Deadbolt locks that extend at least one inch when in locked position are usually the most secure. Install a double-cylinder lock (the kind that requires a key to unlock it from each side) on any door that has glass within 40 inches of the lock. Be mindful, however, that fire protection-related regulations in your area may prohibit the use of double-cylinder locks.The Indianapolis police department advises citizens of an inexpensive do-it-yourself solution to theft-proof your windows. Pin windows by drilling an angled 3/16 inch hole through the inside window frame and extend it halfway into the outside frame. Place a nail in the hole to secure the window shut. Alternatively, you can install key-locking devices; these also may be restricted in some areas due to fire protection-related concerns.2. Conceal Valuables from SightAnother important theft deterrent involves locking lawnmowers, blowers, bicycles, and any other valuable equipment in a garage or garden shed. Also, make sure any valuables inside your home such as a large-screen television, DVD collection, or stereo system are not easily spotted from the outside of your home. 3. Install Outdoor LightingAccording to the National Crime Prevention Council, lighting is one of the cheapest ways to prevent home robbery. Burglars don't like to be seen and are more likely to avoid areas where they risk being spotted, such as well-lighted places. Consider installing an outdoor lighting system, especially if your yard is concealed by a lot of foliage. Some lights work on a timer, engaging when it begins to darken; others are activated through motion. Motion lights near walkways and doorways can provide important visibility of approaching persons. 4. Always Keep Valuables LockedFor your protection and the protection of your possessions, it's a good idea to keep doors locked not only on your house, but on garages and sheds too. Garages or sheds left open are easy targets for burglars and quickly attract their attention. 5. Adopt Street-Smart HabitsAvoid mentioning vacation dates or other times you'll be away from home to strangers, such as repair persons or other casual acquaintances. Never leave messages on your answering machine that may suggest you're out of town. If you're away for more than a few days, cancel your newspaper delivery service and have a neighbor collect your mail so your home looks occupied. You might even ask a friendly neighbor if he'll park his car in your driveway during your absence. 6. Get to Know Your NeighborsIt's important to get to know your neighbors, their children, and any visitors they may have to their home on a regular basis. While being respectful of each other's privacy, keep an eye out for any unusual activity that may be occurring, such as someone wandering around the outside of a house when no one is home. This is equally important for apartment renters who may be less likely to know their neighbors. Apartment dwellers should also make an effort to get to know security guards, doormen, or any concierge personnel.7. Report Suspicious Activity in Your NeighborhoodAll local police departments have a number where you can report suspicious activity. Have the number handy in case you notice anything unusual in your neighborhood.8. Start a Community Watch ProgramTalk to your local department of public safety about neighborhood watch programs in your community. If none currently exists, find out how to start one and get your neighbors involved. The 2000 National Crime Prevention Survey by the National Crime Prevention Council cites a strong link between increased community involvement and reduced crime. Similarly, the Arlington County Policy Department notes that neighborhoods with crime watch programs tend to experience less crime. 9. Get a DogDogs have long been regarded as a formidable theft deterrent. The persistent barking of even small dogs can serve as a burglar alarm, letting you or a neighbor know that something is wrong. At the very least, the noise will draw unwanted attention to a potential burglar. 10. Invest in a Home Security SystemSome Public Safety Departments advise citizens to invest in burglar and fire alarm security systems. If you decide to invest in one, be sure it sounds a burglar alarm when activated and immediately contacts a security service. The National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association advises consumers to ask companies if they conduct background checks on their employees and adhere to all applicable state and local licensing requirements before hiring their services. As you consider electronic security, don't forget that steps toward protecting your home against burglary begin with installing solid doors, heavy-duty locks, secure windows and effective lighting.© QuinStreet Media, Inc. 2005
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