Securing Your Home

• Re-key locks or replace them when you move in.
• Consider using security system in addition to other security measures ask how the system operates if power lines or telephone lines are cut.
• House number should be well lite and easily visible to neighbors and emergency services.
• Exterior doors should be solid core.  Hinges should be on the inside. Make sure the door closes properly and tightly.  Install metal reinforced plates on the frame.  Use 3” screws on hinges and stricker plate for added reinforcement.
• Install deadbolt locks on all exterior doors and other doors from the garage to the house and to the basement
• Double sided deadbolt on doors with windows beside the door.  Make sure the key is still easily accessible incase of emergencies.
• Install wide angle viewers on exterior doors, 200 degrees.
• Fit patio doors with proper locks but also insert a piece of wood or metal rod in the track.
• Secure basement and ground level windows, as well as other areas such as pet doors or air conditioner units.
• Check references of people you hire to work in or around your home.
• List only surname and initial in the phone book.
• Have adequate insurance on your home and contents.

Interior Security

• Leave doors and windows locked whenever possible, lock front door when in the backyard, lock back door when in the front yard.
• Use curtains on basement or garage window to prevent others from shopping for goods.
• Consider using timers in the house, set at random times to give the impression someone is home.
• Store credit cards, identification and other valuables in a safe place and use a safety deposit box for seldom used valuables.
• Avoid leaving house and car keys available to a thief or intruder.
• Do not leave purses or valuables in view of persons at your door.
• Insist on seeing identification from sales and service people. 

Exterior Security

• Keep tools, ladders and garbage pails locked away.
• Keep bicycles, barbeques and lawn equipment securely stored.
• Have adequate exterior lighting.
• Motion detectors at front entrance, rear entrance, side and garage.
• Trim trees and shrubs that could easily hide intruders.
• Fencing higher than 4 feet, fence material, solid, chain link, bushes around fence, gates locked.
• Be aware of any potential hiding places, such as behind a shed.
• Any outdoor furniture that could be used to access second floor, table, ladder.
• Don’t leave spare keys hidden outside – they can be found.
• Parking area visibility.
• Install a deadbolt lock on garage man door, bars on garage windows.
• Garage door opener in view example left on sun visor of your car.
• Don’t use a nameplate outside of your house with your full name. A criminal can use this information to look up your number in the phone book and call to see if you are home.

Once or twice a year go over the above list and make the necessary adjustments. If you have a home security system check with your insurance company as you may be eligible for a reduced rate.