Common sense tips help keep home safe, secure
(NUE)-For most homeowners, their house is their largest investment. It makes sense to keep the home secure and protected from burglars and other unwanted intruders.
Crime prevention starts at home. As a homeowner, there are many things you can do to keep your house safe and secure.
Burglars look for what law enforcement officers call targets of opportunity. Anything you can put in the way of a would-be burglar lessens your chance of becoming a target.
While you cannot make your home absolutely burglar-proof, you can make entry so difficult a burglar will go elsewhere in search of an easier target.
Maintaining an appearance of occupancy, even when your residence is vacant, is essential. Here are some tips that can help keep intruders away:
* Lock your doors. Install high-security deadlock bolts on all your doors and use them. It's estimated that one out of five burglar entries is made through unlocked doors and windows.
* Check the windows. As for windows, burglar bars are one of the best ways to prevent entry. Windows may also be secured by nails, screws or inexpensive key locks; however, they offer no protection against a burglar breaking the window to enter.
* Lighting. Use automatic timers set to go on or off at specific times while you're away on vacation, out to dinner or even during the day while you're at work.
* Review landscaping. Trim shrubs around windows; don't give the burglar a place to hide. Use outside lighting around doors, possibly hooked up to an automatic timer.
* Visibility. Make sure your house numbers are clearly visible so that police, firemen and paramedics can find your home in a time of emergency. Have the numbers illuminated all night.
* Be smart. Don't leave notes outside your home announcing your absence.
* Protect yourself. Don't let a stranger in your home to make a phone call; offer to make it for the person.
Finally, what should you do if you find an intruder in the house? Law enforcement officers advise that you stay out of the way. The intruder may panic and cause you bodily harm if you get between him and his escape route. If possible, lock yourself in a room and call 911.
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Los Gatos, California Since 1881
