Things You'll Need:
- Notebook and pen
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Step 1
Take a notebook and do a home security survey first. Jot down some notes. List any security weaknesses you discover in entry doors, windows, basement entries, and locks. Think like a burglar.
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Step 2
If you’re going way for any length of time, it’s best to notify the post office to hold your mail and stop newspaper delivery. Install light-sensing bulbs and other programmable fixtures which turn themselves on and off.
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Step 3
Door locks should be of the key-in and key-out variety. A deadbolt lock is an additional impediment to a burglar. Locks can be picked and smart burglars keep specialty tools for that purpose, but many locks are more difficult to cheat. If it takes a great deal of time to beat your system, the burglar won’t risk it.
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Step 4
The home should have sufficient exterior lighting and motion sensors. The location of trees and shrubs should not obscure the entrances to the home.
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Step 5
Be sure that the entry doors are of good quality and made of solid materials. ‘Solid core’ is a term to look for in composite doors. Metal doors are the strongest. Keep in mind that a door is only as good as its framing. The door frame itself should be of sufficient strength that it can’t easily be shattered or pried open with a crowbar.
Comments
safeslider said
on 6/4/2009 Just making your home less of a target can save you a lot of grief! We offer a sliding door lock that prevents burglars from lifting door panels out of their track. The simple easy to install patio door lock is also a great childproofing device for families with young children. Kids can open sliding door latches on their own and wander off into danger without a preventative device. Frank from Safe Slider
slphilbrick said
on 9/19/2008 Very detailed article ! My brother always says that locks just keep honest people out; which is not very comforting, but his point is that windows can be broken. Where I live in a rural area, we also count on our neighbors to keep watch for suspicious activity !