How to Keep Safe at Home

Did you know that 40 percent of home invasions occur because a door or window was left unlocked? So, it is wise to:

Lock doors and windows, especially when you're home alone.
Secure sliding glass doors with pins to prevent both horizontal and vertical movement, especially when you're away from home for extended periods of time.
Fix broken locks or windows and install deadbolts on doors leading outside.
Replace all locks immediately upon moving into a new home.

Safe Measures for Greeting Visitors

Install peepholes in all exterior doors. It's always a good idea to look through your peephole viewer to see who's there before you open the door.
Make sure you request identification from sales or repair people before you let them in. Never leave such representatives in your home unsupervised.

How to Keep Your Valuables Safe

Store high-value items such as jewelry, furs and firearms in a small closet with a solid-core door, a non-removable hinge and a deadbolt lock.
Permanently mark your valuables with your driver's license or Social Security number. Also, keep pictures and records of all marked objects in a safe place.
Keep important papers, valuable jewelry and large amounts of cash in a safety deposit box.
Keep gift-wrapped packages hidden from outside view.
When you purchase new electronic equipment, do not advertise it. Break down cartons before discarding in your trash.