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In my home I use:

Heavy duty security screen doors with the deadbolt and knob lock. I have on on the front door and the back door by the kitchen. Keep the door in from the garage locked as well at all times, and keep the garage door closed if you aren't going to be in the garage, even for just a minute. They do make the same in double doors for arcadia doors as well, have them come and test your wall to see if it will take.

All my windows have locks and bars in them. Not only do you see the bar, which is discouraging, but it leave you knowing that breaking the glass maybe the only way in. I leave the window rail difficult to open, just as I leave the front and back doors creaky. Knowing the sounds of your home helps.

Motion lights when coming to the front door, on the side of the house and in the backyard. It's a little annoying having three dogs because they run around and set them off, but I also know that on the side of the house where the gate is, if it comes on, the boys are on patrol. My dogs are familiar with my family and that's about it, even friends need clearance. Dogs don't like starngers and bark to alert that someone is coming. You can't keep a dog from feeling protective about his truf, so let it work to your advantage.

Keep your house looking occupied. Pick up your mail and newspapers, don't let them litter your driveway. The landscape too, neglected grass and bushes may say that the homeowner isn't home enough to even upkeep the basics. Even if you do leave town, have a friend come by and do something like turning off on light for another on, just to make the house look occupied.

Intruders also mean your cars and sheds. Keep heavy duty locks on your sheds, lock up things like bikes, even your lawn mower and tools. Don't leave anything in your car that even looks tempting. You might know that the dufflebag on the bag seat has old gym clothes, but the personal out looking to steal will take it anyways. Put that stuff in your trunk. Take in your mail and items with your name on them inside, and of course, make sure the doors are locked and the alarm is set!

Shred your documents, if not, then throw them in a separate container and discard them separate from your regular trash. Cut the name off of old magazines and items like catalogues.

Women living alone may want to use a first initial rather than name when subscribing to magazines, newspapers and even putting a phone in your name. That was an old trick my mother used when she lived alone, predators look for any insight on where to prey.

Before moving or choosing a new residence, call the police department and find out the crime rate in the area you are considering. Protect the home you haven't even moved into yet!

Use a home security service that a friend or family member has used and had good success with, cheaper isn't better. Same with any landscaping services you may recruit for work, movers, or any service that requires coming to your home.

I like to suggest getting a PO box address when filling out applications for things like buying new and expensive appliances, or even car audio and video components. Unless they are going to deliver it themselves, bewarned that the company may be credible, but how about the delivery guy? Or his friends? Just remember, they not only know what you have purchased, but what else is in your house.

Learn more about this author, Vincent Alfonzo Jamal ..
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