POLICE DEPARTMENT
TIPS TO HELP PROTECT YOUR HOME

• Have a solid-core door for all entrance points.
• Use a quality, heavy-duty deadbolt lock with a one-inch throw bolt.
• Use a quality, heavy-duty, know-in-lock set with a dead-latch mechanism.
• Use a heavy-duty, four-screw, striker plate with three-inch screws to penetrate into a wooden door frame.
• Use a secondary blocking device on sliding glass doors.
• Use anti-lift devices such as through-the-door pins or upper track screws.
• Use highly visible alarm decals or neighborhood watch decals.
• Secure accessible windows with secondary blocking devices.
• Make sure someone cannot reach through an open window to unlock a door or remove a blocking device.
• Use anti-lift devices to prevent the window from being lifted out.
• Secure windows at night and, if need be, leave only a slight opening for ventilation purposes.
• Get to know neighbors.
• Agree to watch out for each other's home.
• Use motion sensor lights near or around key entry points.
• Use good lighting along pathways to and from main entry points.
• Make sure any exterior light allows for 100-foot visibility.
• Make sure the alarm system has an audible horn or bell. Instruct neighbors how to respond should the alarm be activated.
• Be sure to activate alarm systems before leaving home or before retiring for the evening.
• Identify valuables by engraving objects with a set of numbers, make a list of the items and their numbers and keep the list in a safe deposit box or somewhere in the homes.
• Photograph items of value.
• Photocopy wallet contents and other important documents.