General Security Tips

Here are some general tips that will help you and your family be safer.

* Getting to know your neighbors will help them to immediately alert you of any suspicious behavior on your property. Notifying them when you're going away and how you can be contacted in case of emergency will allow you to be aware of a crisis as soon as it occurs. However, although your neighbors may be trustworthy, they may not spot anything different if a robber is at work in your house. Don't solely count on them to protect your home while you're away.
* Don't be fooled into thinking that just because your neighbors can see local comings and goings that they will question anything unusual. Good thieves make themselves blend in.
* Be careful to whom you disclose personal information. Don't discuss vacation plans or expensive hobbies in public places — you never know who's listening!
* If you're a professional working out of your house, rather than use your home address on your business cards or Web site, rent a post-office box instead.
* Becoming involved in a neighborhood association or neighborhood watch will give you information you need to know about any suspicious activity in your area.
* Be informed: Check your local newspaper for crime reports in your neighborhood.
* It doesn't matter what environment or community your home is in, thieves are impervious to them.
* If you come home and something looks questionable — a slit screen, a broken window, an open door — don't go inside! Call the police from your neighbor's or from your cell phone.
* If you are new to homeownership, contact your local crime-prevention organization for advice on how to start securing your home. With no super to rely on, all those jobs will need attention from you now!
* Burglars often target the elderly, so be friendly and keep an eye out for local retirees.
* When living with multiple people, make sure everyone understands the importance of home security. It only takes one person to leave everyone else vulnerable. But don't rely on others; keep your private possessions locked away.
* If you have had a bad experience already with a crook — learn from it — don't just think bad luck won't strike twice!