Security at Home
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Home Safety Tips

  • Equip all your exterior door with a one inch dead-bolt or drop-boIt lock. The lock should also have a highly pick-resistant cylinder protected by a guard plate. Change existing locks if you've just moved into a home.
  • Install a door peephole, or an intercom system, or closed circuit camera system to identify visitors before opening the door. The peephole should be of the wide-angle type which gives a fuller view of the outside area.
  • Exterior doors should be of the "solid core" type, which provide a stronger barrier against break-in.
  • Do not open door until you are sure of the identity of your visitor.
  • Always double lock door when leaving, even to put out trash, pick up mail or walk the dog. Keep all doors locked at night.
  • Secure windows and sliding glass doors by drilling a small hole at a downward angle through the interior frame and partially into the exterior frame. Slide a bolt or nail into the hole to prevent the window/door from being opened. You can also equip windows with a lock that cannot be defeated from the outside.
  • Trim shrubs around windows and doors that could conceal a burglar.
  • Install exterior lighting or motion sensor lighting to illuminate dark or hidden entry ways.
  • Consider installing yard fencing to limit unauthorized entry.
  • Install a home alarm system, purchased and installed by a nationwide reputable company. The system should include door and window contacts, motion sensors and glass break sensors.
  • Do not leave house-key under mat, in mailbox or in any other area near door. If you lose your keys or they are stolen, replace lock cylinders immediately.
  • Don't volunteer any information to unknown callers on the telephone. Don't give out your home phone number to wrong number callers. Instruct young children not to give out information over the phone to unfamiliar callers.
  • Give careful consideration to requests to photograph your home.
  • If on returning you find a door open or tampered with, do not enter. Leave immediately and notify police.
  • If awakened at night by an intruder, lie still, try not to panic, and at first opportunity call the police.


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