by Susan Blake
Burglars go through neighborhoods looking for uncut lawns and stuffed mailboxes. In the evening, they look for darkened houses or lights that have been left on too long. The following burglary prevention tips will help to make you and your family safer.
Burglary Basics:
• Make your home look occupied and make it difficult to break in.
• Lock all outside doors and windows before you leave the house or go to bed. Even if it is for a short time, Lock your doors.
•Leave the light on when you go out. If you are going to be gone for a length of time, connect some lamps to automatic timers to turn on in the evening and off again during the day.
• Don’t allow daily delivery of mail, newspapers or flyers build up while you are away. Arrange with the post office to hold your mail or arrange with a friend or neighbor to take them daily.
• Check the locks on your doors and windows and replace them with secure devices if necessary.
• Push button locks on doorknobs are easy for burglars to open. Install deadbolt locks on all your outside doors.
• Sliding doors are vulnerable. Special locks are available for better security.
Don’t tempt a thief:
• Keep lawn mowers, barbecues, bicycles and other items out of sight.
• Always lock your sheds and garages.
• Never leave notes on your door such as: “Gone Shopping”.
Locks:
• Locks, regardless of the quality, can be effective. Deadbolts provide the maximum security.
• Change locks immediately if your keys are lost or stolen.
Targeting the outside:
• Have adequate lighting. A motion-sensitive light is recommended.
• Trim trees and shrubs so that they cannot be used for hiding places for intruders.
Next time: What to do if your home is broken into.
