Home Security For a Safer Life

With much of the U.S sweltering with heat, it’s time to remember that although having the window open may seem like a good idea, it’s an open invitation to many to “come on in”.

To be safer, consider opening the windows of your home only when you’re home and during the day. Although break- ins can happen at any time of the day or night, usually burglar types prefer the stealth of night to get into and out of your home unseen.

In the evening, close your windows and use a block or lock to open then a few inches to let in air. If you have single or double hung wood windows, get a small rod of metal to use as a lock. It only needs to be about 2-2.5 inches and it’s actually better if it has a ring on one end. A “clevis” type pin is perfect for this use. Next, put the window in an open position that won’t let someone through the opening, then drill a hole through the first window frame and partially into the second, stationary one. Finally, put the metal rod through the opened window the through the secondary, stationary one. Now the windows is effectively locked but you still can get some breeze with the little opening at the bottom.

Be cautious of any salesman or strangers in your neighborhood.
Write down license plate numbers of suspicious vehicles, note vehicle and occupants descriptions.
Report all suspicious activity to the local police.
Never eat candy or food items delivered to the residence from an unknown source.
Treat with suspicion all inquiries about the whereabouts or activities of other family members.
Never accept the premise of coincidence or innocent accident involving strangers.
Be alert to the unexpected in and around your home. Be suspicious if something has been moved, left unlocked, or does not look right.
Familiarize yourself with neighborhood vehicles, noting normal parking arrangements.
Vary your route when coming to and going home.
Refuse unordered package deliveries; no exceptions, and do not open suspicious mail.
Participate in a neighborhood watch program if available.
Install and maintain good exterior lighting. Consider motion sensor activated lights.
Use timers for inside and outside lights when away from residence.
Install and use a home alarm system, and test it quarterly.
Position flashlights throughout the house.
Keep portable fire extinguishers handy and in good condition. Install smoke/heat detectors on every level and near sleeping areas, and check them quarterly. Conduct fire drills.
Keep a cell phone in the bedroom. Consider establishing a safe room to go to in emergencies.
Memorize emergency telephone numbers, and have them prominently displayed near telephones.
If weapons are in the house, secure them, use trigger locks, and keep them separate from the ammunition.
Do not have your name on the mailbox.
Stop mail and newspaper service when you are away. Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway.
Notify police of any extended absences from the residence.
Keep a cell phone with you when you are in your vehicle.
Do not use vanity plates. It helps identify your car if you are being followed.
Do not put bumper stickers or decals on your car for the reason above.
Park in well lit areas.
Be alert to the possibility of being followed. If you suspect you are being followed, make three right turns. If the vehicle is still there, do not drive home, but call the police and drive to a police station or public place.
Do not stop for stranded motorists or hitchhikers.
Always maintain at least one half tank of gas.
Leave ample room between vehicles when stopped to provide an escape route.
Avoid leaving your vehicle on the street overnight.
Always check for suspicious persons before getting out of your vehicle. If in doubt, drive away.
Leave only the valet key for the parking attendant.
Know locations of safe havens on your established route of travel.
Always travel with a companion when possible, especially when taking public transportation.
If using a taxi, if possible, specify the route you want the driver to take.
Be constantly aware of your surroundings.
Take responsibility for your own safety and that of your family members.
Discuss these issues with family members, especially children.
Remain vigilant! Don’t fall for the myths that ;It can’t happen to me, It’s not worth the hassle, and &
Idon’t have the time.