If You Already Have A Security System

Your home security system is a proven deterrent to intruders. Studies have shown that homes without alarm systems are 2.2 times more likely to be burglarized than homes with alarm systems.* Your alarm system will detect and report attempts to break into secured areas.

Your system warns of fire before you can see or smell it-giving you time to escape to safety.

Use your system to report medical emergencies and summon expert medical help at the press of a button.

* Source: The Greenwich Case: Securing Suburban Homes, Simon Hakim

If You Don't Already Have A Security System

Pin windows and sliding doors so they are hard to open from the outside.

If something isn't exactly right when you return home, don't go inside. Go to a neighbor's home for assistance. Risk embarrassment rather than endangering your life.

Meet your neighbors. Inform each other when workers are scheduled to be at your home so imposters can't steal valuables. If your neighbor hasn't informed you of the work to be done, call the police. Some victims of burglary have had their homes completely emptied by what appeared to be a moving company.

Make Your Home A Less Attractive Target for Burglars

Avoid landscaping that provides hiding places.

Keep doors locked-an obvious step that most victims have ignored.

Put away ladders or other objects that would assist a burglar in reaching an upper window.

Do you have a privacy fence? If someone got into your yard, would the fence provide the cover for the burglar while he breaks in?

Lights Make A Difference

When you're away, put lights on a timer so they come on automatically at dusk, to create the impression that you're home.

Light the exterior sides and back of your home to make hiding or entering undetected more difficult.

Daytime Burglaries

Burglaries are more likely to occur between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. in the afternoon when many neighborhoods are empty. This creates an opportunity for a burglar to go to work without being noticed. Don't leave doors or windows unlocked, even when you leave the home to go next door, down the block or to the store for just a short time.

Consider changing fencing so one could be seen in the side yard. Shadow box fencing with larger spaces do a good job of keeping pets in while still providing some view of who is in the yard. Iron picket or wood picket fencing is better yet.