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Crime Prevention & Your Home
Make Doors Crime Resistant
Install deadbolt locks, solid doors and sturdy hinges and strike plates. (Be sure all materials meet building and fire codes.)
Secure Sliding Doors
- Drill a hole through the inside frame, and insert a nail to prevent sliding.
- Place a strong piece of wood in the track.
- Install locks to prevent sliding or lifting.
Prevent Window Entry
- Use window key locks.
- Keep keys in window locks for quick exit in case of emergency or fire.
- For double-hung windows, drill holes downward where inside and outside sashes meet.
- Insert nails or bolts.
- Consider Buying an alarm from a reputable dealer.
Crime Proof Outside Areas
- Keep yard, porch and entrances well-lit.
- Look into motion detection lighting.
- Store tools, toys, etc., after use.
- Never hide keys outside your home.
- Keep bushes trimmed.
Safeguard Valuables
- Engrave TV's and other household valuables with some identifiable number or label.
- Rent a safe-deposit box for small valuables.
- Have peace of mind when you're away.
- Inform a trusted neighbor of travel plans. Have him or her collect mail and other deliveries.
- Don't share your plans with strangers.
- Leave shades in their normal positions. Put 2 or more lights on a timer. Use them daily, not just when you're away.
- Ask local Police for a free security check.
Take Precautions When
- Driving
- Lock doors and roll up windows
- Keep valuables out of sight
- Park in well-lit-areas
- Never pick up strangers
- Stay in your locked car with windows up if:
- Someone bumps you from behind - Criminals may be trying to lure you from the car
- You have car trouble - signal stopping motorist to get help for you
- Taking public transportation
- Wait at a busy, well-lit stops
- Sit close to the driver
- If someone harasses you, yell for help
- Walking, biking or jogging
- Go with a friend
- Avoid isolated areas
- Stay alert (no headphones!) and look confident
- Don't carry lots of cash or wear expensive clothing or jewelry
- Protect yourself at all times.
Be Alert When
- Returning home
- Have your key ready as you approach the door
- If you think someone is inside, don't go in - call the police from a nearby phone
- Answering your door
- Talk through a closed door, don't depend on a door chain. Consider installing a peephole.
- Never let a stranger in.
- Ask service people to slip identification under the door - call the "home office" to verify
- Hold your purse firmly and cover the clasp with your hand.
- Never leave your purse unattended.