Home Security Tips

• Always keep doors and windows secured while at home or away.
  
  
• Never answer the door to strangers.  Educate children to never answer the door without an adult present - even if the know the visitor.
  
  
• If you don't already have one, install a viewer (peephole) in your door.
  
  
• Insist on identification from repair and sales persons.  If in doubt, call their company to verify identification.
  
  
• Keep you home will lighted, both indoors an outdoors.
  
  
• Never come home to a dark residence. Have porch lights and indoor lights set on a timer.
  
  
• Never leave spare key(s) hidden outside.  Instead, issue spare key(s) to a trusted neighbor.
  
  
• Place a wood rod or dowel (3/4 inch) in the tope track of sliding glass doors or windows.
  
  
• Use secure locks on windows and doors.
  
  
• If you have a door leading directly to your home from your garage, keep that door locked and secured at all times.
  
  
• Do not admit persons asking to use your telephone.  Offer to make the call for them.
  
  
• Know your neighbors and your neighborhood.  Call your local law enforcement agency for information on joining Neighborhood Alert of starting a Neighborhood Alert Program in you neighborhood or apartment complex.
  
  
• Identify your belongings by engraving your driver's license number on your possessions.
  
  
• If you return home and find a door or window open, or see signs of forced entry, do not enter.  Go to a neighbor's home and immediately phone your local police department.
  
  
• Use automatic timers to turn lights on and off, giving the appearance that you are home.
  
  
• Stop mail and other deliveries when on vacation, or ask a neighbor to pickup you mail, newspapers, or advertisements left on your door or entry gate.
  
  
• If you live in an apartment or condominium, be attentive and careful if you are alone in the laundry room or garage.
  
  
• Have all locks re-keyed when moving into a new home.
  
  
• Keep a list of emergency phone numbers near the telephone.
  
  
• Teach children the proper use of 9-1-1- for police, fire or medical emergencies.