Along with a security system there are other steps that you can take to reduce the chances that you home will be a target for burglars. Below are some tips and suggestions to keep you safe:

Doors and Windows

Be sure to lock windows and doors. An open window or unlocked door is an invitation to a burglar. Be especially careful on hot summer nights when it can be tempting to leave windows open. Secure all accessible windows with secondary blocking devices.

Keep your garage door closed. Most burglars enter via the front, back, or garage doors. If your garage is attached it’s an easy entry into your home. If it’s not attached it’s an easy way to steal items such as bikes and lawn mowers.

Use a solid core or metal door for all entrance points. Use a quality, heavy-duty, deadbolt lock with a one-inch throw bolt.

Use a wide-angle 160° peephole mounted no higher than 58 inches. This is especially important for condominiums of other dwellings where an intruder could gain entry into a build before gaining entry to your home.

If you have a sliding glass door, be sure to install and use a secondary blocking device on all sliding glass doors. Keep the latch mechanism and door rollers in good condition and properly adjust.

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Passwords and Codes

Do not share your passwords with anyone. If you have help that needs to gain entry into your home set them up with their own codes or be available to let them into your home. If you must provide someone with a temporary password (such as contractor or real estate agent) make sure to delete the code once their job is complete.

Be sure to let children and others know how important it is to keep your passwords safe and not to share them with others.

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Know Your Neighbors

Ask your neighbors to keep an eye out for your home and do them same for them – especially if you are out late at night or out of town. Ask them to pick up mail or newspapers if you know you are going to be out of town. Burglars will watch for things such as piled up newspapers when select a home to rob.

Report suspicious behavior in the neighborhood. Whether burglaries or other suspicious activity seem to be taking place don’t be afraid to call the authorities. Potential intruders will avoid neighborhoods where there is a greater police presence.

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Lighting and Landscaping

Be sure to keep your home well lit from the outside. Exterior lighting needs to bright enough for you to see 100 feet and it helps if you can identify colors. Intruders will avoid brighter areas and the light will help you notice (and choose to avoid) suspicious activity.

If you are away from home consider installing timers to simulate activity in your home. Remote timers can control lights, televisions, radios or more to make it appear form the exterior as if you are at home.

Consider safety when landscaping your home. Make sure walkways are clear and visibility is good. Consider landscaping near windows. You don’t want to set up a situation where someone could hide in your bushes – so think about what the landscaping will look like now and as it grows.