Secure the house.
Step1
Blend in. Conform to your neighborhood’s house and landscaping profile. Looking like the most expensive and elaborately designed home will call attention to burglars.
Step2
Install motion-sensor lights.
Put up visible deterrents. Post warning signs like "Beware of Dog" or "This Property Protected by XYZ Security System." Install storm windows that are double-paned and difficult to break. Place lights, preferably motion-sensor types, in strategic corners around the house.
Step3
Get an alarm system. The monthly subscription is well worth the peace of mind.
Step4
Install good deadbolt locks.
Install sturdy locks and deadbolts, and use them. Remember to check if all the doors and windows are secure and properly locked. Pay close attention to bathroom windows, backdoors, cellar doors and garage access doors.
Step5
Use automatic timers to turn lights and radios on and off when you’re not home. This gives the impression that someone is home and deters intruders from breaking in.
Step6
Draw curtains at nightfall.
Draw curtains, blinds or shades at nightfall; when it’s dark outside and the indoor lights are on, passersby (and thieves) can see inside and notice your expensive items and possessions.
Secure your family and valuables.
Step1
Don’t talk to strangers about your family schedules, whereabouts and planned vacations. Delivery persons, sales people and service crews may be acquainted with burglars; details about your family should not be available to them.
Step2
Don’t leave notes on the door about your timetables and locations.
Step3
Allow only invited guests into your doors. Open-house parties are "open season" to burglars. Thieves could steal something during the party or discover ways to break in at a later time for a major haul.
Step4
Be wary of door-to-door special offers or unsolicited phone calls that ask about the best time to visit you. They could be interested only in the best time to rob you.
Step5
When bringing home new and expensive appliances and electronics, unload them inside a closed garage. Tear down the boxes and dispose of them discreetly. You never know, a burglar could be watching your home, taking note of your latest acquisitions.
Step6
When going on vacation, ask the help of a trusted neighbor to gather your newspaper and mail. Nothing says "nobody’s home" more than an overflowing mailbox and a pile of newspapers on the porch. Better yet, enlist a reliable house sitter.