Intruder Prevention Checklist
Home protection is a major concern every home owner should consider on a daily basis. Though installing an alarm system may put your mind at ease, it is important to remember that alarm systems are not completely foolproof. For this reason, it is recommended that you maintain a household that deters potential intruders from entering your home. Does this Spark an idea?
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Keep Your Entryways Secure
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Certain locks, such as deadbolts, can better secure your home. Ensure your home is secure by simply locking all the doors and windows. This includes windows and doors found in your basement, upstairs, and especially the ones located in your garage area. You should also place a brace behind your sliding door after locking it. If you have a cellar door, be sure it is locked from the inside.
Eliminate Places to Hide
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A well kept home is less appealing to an intruder. Remember those minor repairs your parents did on a weekly basis? Turns out those repairs were not just for maintaining the homestead; they were good ways of deterring intruders. Trimming the bushes and trees or changing blown light bulbs can increase visibility in your yard. It is also beneficial to install motion sensor lights to detect any movement.
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Give the Illusion of Being Home
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Technology can really help you protect your home when you are away. Proper security will make it appear you are home even when you are not. Intruders will often monitor, or "case," a house before entering. Making your daily habits slightly mysterious will keep the intruder guessing if you really are home. Putting your car in the garage consistently, using lights with timers, and forwarding home phone calls to your cell phone can deter the intruder, as he is less likely to enter a home that he believes is occupied.
Hide Your Valuables
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Visible and expensive items may taunt the intruder to enter. Though you may be proud of grandma's heirloom jewelry, or grandpa's silver and gold coin collection, never leave valuable items in clear view where people outside can see them. Much like a mouse to a mousetrap, these items will entice burglars, regardless of the risk. Save these priceless pieces to show to dinner guests when you have them over.
Make Friends With Your Neighbors
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Neighbors are an extra set of eyes that can help keep your home secure. There is a reason that neighborhood watch factions around the country work; these groups have an interest in protecting the community and pay attention to all kinds of activity throughout the day and night. Your neighbors can help maintain the security of your home when you are away, by picking up your mail or entering the premises to double check that everything is safe and secure.
Enlist the Help of Your Four Legged Friend
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Dogs are man's best friend for a reason. The canine is the most common type of animal that is kept for home security. Beware of Dog signs can sometimes be deterrent enough, but a live dog is even better. A dog barking is a good way to draw attention to the presence of an intruder, and a large, scary, snarling beast will usually scare him away.
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References
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