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Front entrance:
Front entrance doors should be metal-clad or solid-core wood construction. A deadbolt lock with a minimum one-inch throw, in addition to the key-in-the knob lock, is essential. Use a wide-angle viewer rather than a door chain to observe callers. A screen door or storm door offers an additional level of protection if kept locked. |
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Ground-floor windows:
Windows should be kept closed and locked when you are away from home. Screen and storm windows should be securely fastened to the structure. |
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Upper-floor windows:
Keep the second floor secure by trimming tree branches away from the house to prevent access. Do not store ladders where a burglar can use them to reach an upper floor. Lock all windows while away, and take the same precautions as with ground floor windows. |
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Garage door:
The garage door should always be closed and locked, even when you are at home. Treat the entrance door from the garage to your house the same as any exterior entrance. |
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Porch and patio doors:
Consider all exterior doors on the rear and side of your home as possible targets for entry. Since they may be less visible from the street and by neighbors than a front entrance, extra precautions may be needed to secure them. |
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Yard lights:
Each exterior entrance, including garage doors, should be well-lit. Post lights in your yard or floodlights mount under the eaves to prevent blind spots where burglars can hide. Low-cost timers for exterior lights will turn them on and off at specific times, or motion-sensor lighting can be installed. |
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Landscaping:
When planting trees, bushes and flowers, remember to keep doorways, windows and porches clear. Keep in mind that bushes that provide privacy also give a burglar a place to hide. Plan your landscaping with both privacy and security in mind. |
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Gates and fences:
Despite the fact that fences might provide concealment to burglars, if properly used they can also deter the removal of large items and increase the difficulty of breaking in. |
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Neighbors:
Know your neighbors. Tell them what you are doing to protect your home. This may provide them with ideas to protect their own property. Work together and report any suspicious people or activities in your neighborhood to the police. Good neighbors make safe neighborhoods. |
