- Lock your doors and windows.
- If you have an alarm system, use it.
- Avoid making valuables visible from windows and doors.
- Do not announce you will be away on social network sites or answering machines.
- Set an automatic timer for your lights when you are away.
- Ask a trustworthy neighbor to keep an eye on your home when you are away.
Lighting
- Install exterior security lighting around the perimeter of your home.
- Leave outside lights on after dark. Use motion-detecting, dusk to dawn, solar, or floodlights.
- Make sure all entries, porches, driveways, backyards, and patio areas have security lighting.
Landscaping
- Keep landscaping trimmed and well maintained to limit hiding places.
- For large amounts of landscaping, consider installing extra lighting to compensate for darkness.
- Make sure your landscaping does not obstruct lighting fixtures.
Additional Security
- Install a double deadbolt lock with a 1-inch throw.
- Install a “Strike Latch Plate” on entry doors to prevent doors from being pried open.
- Install a “Charley Bar” to secure sliding glass doors and prevent the door from opening. Consider purchasing a bar equipped with an alarm.
- Install a doorknob/glass vibration sensor on your entry doors and windows to provide additional alerts if someone is tampering with your doorknob.
- Never leave house keys outside “hidden” under a flower pot, doormat, or in the mailbox.
Protecting Your Vehicle
- Keep your vehicle doors locked and windows closed.
- Do not leave valuables in plain sight in your vehicle.
- Place items out of sight BEFORE reaching your destination. Someone may be watching you park and put valuables under the seat or in the trunk. The moment you are gone, a thief could break-in.
- Never leave your purse attended in your vehicle, especially when pumping gas.
- Avoid leaving packages or shopping bags in your vehicle. If you are leaving your vehicle unattended and you cannot take your valuables with you, lock them in the trunk or in a locked glove compartment.
- Always park in busy, well-lit areas where there is a lot of activity.
- Engage your vehicle alarm or anti-theft device.
- Thieves usually look for easy targets, and if you have an alarm, it acts as a deterrent,
- Never leave spare keys in your vehicle. Store spare keys in your wallet, purse, or with a trusted neighbor.
- Do not leave garage door openers in your vehicle, especially while parked in your driveway.