Safety and Security Tips

Outside

• Prune lower limbs from trees near the house.
• Trim bushes so windows are visible to neighbors.
• High fences shield burglars from sight.
• Lock up your ladders and tools.
• Trellises help a burglar climb to a second story.
• Porches and entrances should be well lit.
• Your street number should be clearly visible for police and firemen.

Doors and Windows

• Entry doors should be solid core wood that is at least 1-3/4" thick, or metal.
• Doors should fit tightly. 1/8" clearance maximum.
• Doors with glass panels should have a break-resistant plastic panel.
• Sliding doors need special locks or a wooden strip in the track to block the door from opening.
• Use a dead-bolt door lock with a strike plate attached by 3" screws.
• A rim mounted lock with bolt affords good protection.
• Use police locks on rear and basement doors.
• Padlocks must be sturdily constructed. Hasp must be bolted, not screwed.
• Use special locks for double hung windows.
• Use metal grills on vulnerable windows.

Vacation Check

• Advise police that you will be away.
• Have your neighbor pick up packages.
• Have a friend pick up mail and newspapers daily.
• Use timers to turn on lights automatically.
• Hide garbage cans in a garage or basement.
• Double check locks on all windows and doors.
• Leave your shades and blinds in their normal position.
• Turn the bell on your telephone low so a burglar will not hear it ringing.
• Stop deliveries of papers and magazines.

Security Systems

Carefully consider installing an electronic security system if your home contains valuables, is in an isolated area, or if you want more protection for your family.
A security system entitles you to a discount on your homeowner's policy. For more information, contact you local insurer.

• Never carry identification tags on your keys.
• Don't hide keys outside.
• Have locks re-keyed or changed when moving.
• Keep daily routines confidential.
• Don't put valuables where they are visible.
• Don't let strangers into your home to use the phone.
• Be aware that wrong numbers or telephone surveys may be used by burglars to "case" your home.
• Avoid listing your name or address in newspaper advertisements.
• On the day of a funeral, you should always have a sitter in your home.
• Mark a special identification number (from the police department) on all valuable possessions. Use an electric engraving pen. Place ADS decals on your windows and doors.
• In case your home or apartment appears to have been broken into, don't go inside. Call the police.