It's a fact that many crimes can be prevented by taking some extra security measures. It may be frightening to think about being the victim of a robbery or an assault, but it is dangerous to think that it can't happen to you. No matter where you live, you should take precautions to keep your home and family safe. Here are some tips from the Home Security Store to help you stay safe:
Security in and around Your Home:
?Install quality deadbolts and locks on your doors.
?Don't hide the key outside your home. Leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or friend instead.
?Keep your doors and windows locked at all times, even if you are at home.
?Consider installing a burglar alarm if your home doesn't already have one. Have it tested and/or upgraded regularly.
?Install a peephole in your door so you can see who is there before you open it.
?Look at your yard from a criminal's point of view ? trim bushes and shrubs that could be hiding places, and install exterior lighting to keep your home lit up at night.
Security with Young Children:
?Instruct children how to answer the phone. Remind them never to give out personal information to callers and that they should never tell someone that you are not home.
?Store all household cleaners, medicines, and sharp objects safely out of reach of children. Install safety latches on cabinets and drawers.
?If you have a swimming pool, NEVER let children swim alone. Consider putting up a locked gate to keep unsupervised kids out.
Financial Security:
?Don't sign your credit cards. Instead, write ?Ask for ID? on the back of all cards.
?Invest in a paper shredder. You should shred all documents, including junk mail, which have any personal information on them.
?Be cautious about any unsolicited mail or email claiming that you have won something. Many scams promise money or other ?prizes? if you send personal information. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Security in an Emergency:
?Test all smoke alarms in your home regularly. You may want to install carbon monoxide alarms as well.
?Plan an escape route in case of a fire. Make sure everyone in your family knows where to go and what to do.
?Keep several flashlights around the house and check the batteries frequently.
?Make a list of emergency phone numbers, like poison control and the local police and fire departments, and keep it near the phone.
