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How to be Safer at Home

How to be safer at home

Generally speaking, burglars steer clear of homes that are occupied. Unfortunately, there are often exceptions to that rule. To assume that nothing will happen as long as someone is home is a common mistake. When an intruder enters an unoccupied home, the articles of property inside are the only things at risk, but when they enter an occupied home, family members are at risk as well. Here are several ways to maximize home security and to minimize the risk of being targeted:

Do not allow strangers to enter

Home security means being cautious and that does not just apply to children. Thieves will go to any length to gain easy access to a home. Posing as a delivery driver or a utility worker is a way to look trustworthy to the person answering the door and can get the thief into the house, no questions asked. Even if the stranger is wearing a uniform and driving a company car, these things could be stolen or fake. A good security rule to follow is to request to see photo identification from every unfamiliar face before you allow them into your home.

Do not be predictable

Scoping out a potential house is a way for a thief to become familiar with the day-to-day activities of the occupants. Leaving and returning at the same time every day is a routine that can easily be memorized by an intruder. School hours are work hours cannot be changed, but making the pattern less predictable by varying something minor, like the times when the weekly errands are run, can make a big difference.

Secure all trash

Trash gives away personal clues about a home and its valuables. Boxes from a large purchase like an entertainment center or a TV that are thrown out on the curb in plain sight, compromise security by advertising to anyone walking or driving by that a large purchase was made. Cutting the boxes down and stuffing them in regular trash bags hides the evidence of anything valuable. Getting into the habit of securing all trash prevents thieves and anyone else from seeing what kind of valuables are inside of the house.

Invest in a home security system

Staying safe and secure is the goal of all families. Unfortunately, threats exist that can compromise a family's happiness and result in pain and property loss. Investing in a home security system is the best solution for protection. A security system is an intruder's worst nightmare and homes that have security systems are far less likely to be victimized. Installing a home security system will protect your home and family.

Living in a familiar neighborhood where nothing bad ever happens does not mean nothing ever will. Always be cautious of any suspicious activity. Stay aware of any situation that might present itself, pay attention to the small details, and invest in a home security system. There is no substitute for the peace of mind a home security system will give you.

* Standard home security alarm monitoring agreement required with approved credit. Offer subject to change. Void where prohibited.

* Information used for home security alarm system comparisons was obtained February 2012 through telephone and online research. ADT prices: based on total out-of-pocket expense to obtain services; installation based on fees for similar home security equipment packages; "Monitoring" price listed includes the additional "warranty" or "extended service plan".

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The BEST BUY SEAL is a registered trademark of Consumers Digest Communications, LLC, used under license.

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