1.      Don’t display your name on your mailbox. A thief needs only a phonebook to determine who answers and who is gone.

2.      Don’t make it easy for a burglar to get in:

a.       Don’t leave a “hidden key” outside under doormat, flowerpot, in a drain spout, over the door, etc.

b.      Don’t leave a ladder outside.

3.      Do install the best locks you can afford:

a.       Install dead bolt locks on all outside doors.  Consider that two deadbolts spread the force of a blow.

b.      Install a dead bolt lock on the door between house and garage.

c.       Install locks on sliding glass doors to prevent door from being lifted out of the track.

d.      Consider selecting locks that are not produced in mass quantities (store brands) to ensure that your key is unique. 

e.       Don’t rely on clamshell window locks. They’re uneven, don’t fit, and are easily jimmied with a knife. Check out our website and learn how to put bolts in your windows.

f.        Do lock up when at home, when cutting the grass or gardening. Burglars drive around looking for such an opportunity and just walk inside.

4.      Do strengthen all doors and locks:

a.       Install solid core or metal doors with little or no glass

b.      Install a wide-angle peephole to inspect visitors – and use it.

c.       Hinges should be on the inside.

d.      The door jam should be as solid as the door.