| 1. |
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Keep all doors and windows closed and securely fastened. An open window or door is an open invitation for burglars.
Thieves are also quick to spot weak locks that may be easily forced open.
Doors should have deadbolt locks with a one-inch throw and reinforced strike
plate with three-inch screws. All
windows should have window locks.
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| 2. |
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Burglars will generally try to enter your house unseen, favoring rear
doors and particularly sliding doors that are usually left unlocked.
Secure sliding glass doors by placing a metal rod or piece of plywood in
the track and install vertical bolts.
These will prevent burglars from forcing the door open or lifting it off
the track.
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| 3. |
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Always lock the door to an attached garage.
Don't rely on your automatic garage door opener for security.
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| 4. |
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Keep the exterior of your home brightly lit at night.
Burglars will less likely approach a well-lit area.
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| 5. |
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Prune shrubs to keep them from concealing doors or windows. While large,
ornate hedges may be beautiful, they also provide a hiding place for burglars
who need only a minute to break in through a window or door.
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| 6. |
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If someone comes to your door after dark, use extreme caution when
answering it.
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| 7. |
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Never hide a key outside your house.
Everyone thinks to look in the same place for a spare key (including the
burglar), so don't leave keys above the door frame or under the doormat.
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| 8. |
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When traveling, create the illusion that you are home by using timers to
turn on lights at night. A dark,
empty home is a beacon to burglars, so give the appearance that someone is
constantly at your home.
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| 9. |
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Have a trusted neighbor collect mail and newspapers while you are away so
delivered items do not accumulate. You
can also ask a neighbor to park in your driveway or parking place to make it
appear that you are present.
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| 10. |
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Keep some
shades and blinds up and curtains open to maintain a normal, everyday appearance
in your residence. |
| 11. |
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Don't leave a
message on your answering machine that you are away from home.
A message that you will return at a certain time leaves your home
vulnerable in the interim.
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| 12. |
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When returning
home, always be aware of windows and doors.
If anything looks unusual, immediately call the authorities.
Always look around you as you walk to your door.
As long as you keep yourself aware of possible dangers, the less likely
you are to become a victim.
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| 13. |
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Have a security
system professionally installed...a system that best suits the needs of your
family.
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| 14. |
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Arm your
security system at night and every time you leave your home.
This security system can't offer protection unless you make sure to arm
it. So, make it a habit to set your
alarm every time you leave, even if its only for a few minutes.
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