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tips to burglary proof your home

• Fix broken locks immediately, even those on the second or third floor. Check that all doors and windows have strong locks. Fix or replace faulty locks as soon as you see them. Change any burned-out outdoor lights promptly.
• Never let strangers (like delivery guy, someone claiming to be a family relative) into your house or gate without proper photo identification. A uniform or company truck does not guarantee legitimacy. If anybody asks for a glass of water or requests use of your phone, offer to get or make it for them – but don’t let them in. Remember to lock the door or gate behind you when you go inside the house.
• An efficient home security system that is not updated and activated is useless. Turn your system on even if you will be out briefly. Keep all the doors and windows locked when you’re inside. Burglars generally avoid occupied houses, but you can never be too sure.
• Keep storage sheds and garage locked at all times. Place ladders out of reach or chained to a secure post to prevent access to second-story entrances. Thieves use tools they can easily find to get into homes.
• Never leave a set of house keys inside your car, and don’t keep your house and car keys in the same ring, especially if you use valet parking or leave keys with parking lot attendants or car repair mechanics.
• Thieves take note of routines, especially if you leave the house and return at set times. Vary your schedule every now and then.
• Avoid creating interest into your possessions. Don’t leave empty boxes of new plasma tv or stereo system outside your house in plain sight of passersby. Fold them instead and stuff into trash bags or cans. Be careful of identity theft. Shred all papers (bank statement, ATM receipts) or blacken out your personal information before throwing away documents.
• If your windows are visible or accessible to passerby, don’t leave your wallet, jewelry or fancy electronics in sight or where they can be seized immediately. Ensure that all door and window hinges are inside your house.

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