Making your home safer from crime starts with properly locked doors and window and visible, well-lit entryways.
Exterior Doors — All exterior doors should be solid. For added security, use strong door hinges on the inside of the door, with non-removable or hidden pins.
Locks — Strong, reliable locks are essential to effective home security. Always keep doors and windows locked-even when leaving for a five minute trip. All door locks should be used. When using a deadbolt lock ensure that the bolt extends at least one inch and use a reinforced strike plate with one-and-a-half inch screws.
Sliding Glass Doors — Always lock the door, adjust the track clearances so that the door can not be moved off the track. Place a piece of wood/metal in track to prevent opening.
Windows — Most windows are double hung. When securing a double hung window you can pin those windows. Drill an angled hole through the top frame of the lower window partially into the frame of the upper window and insert pin or nail, or, you can place a wooden dowel in the track of the window.
Lighting Inside- Is the most cost-effective detterents to burglary. Indoor lighting gives the impression that a home is occupied. Consider using automatic timers that switch lights on and off even when you are away.
Lighting Outside — Can eliminate hiding places. Install lighting near porches, rear and side doors, garage doors, and all other points of entry. Place light out of reach or inside secure housing units. Motion sensor lighting is recommended.
Landscaping — Should provide maximum visibility to and from your home. Trim shrubbery that could conceal criminal activity near doors and windows. Provide lighting in areas where trees and shrubs could serve as hiding places.
