For obvious reasons burglars prefer to enter unoccupied homes. One way to reduce the chances of being a victim is to make the home appear occupied at all times. Automatic timers are a popular way to have lights, radio and or a tv turn on and off as if someone were at home. Timers are inexpensive and some are even programmable so the light goes on and off at different times each day. In addition, when timing a radio or tv turn up the volume so it can be heard outside. Another good idea is to have your telephone calls forwarded anytime your not at home. This way if a burglar calls to check if someone is home, the phone will be answered. When at home always park your cars in the garage and close the garage door. Thieves will take note of patterns and may notice if you always leave the garage door open or park in the driveway when at home. Thieves would realize that when the door is shut and the car is not in the driveway you are not home. This is practically an invitation to the burglar. When away for more than a day, have a neighbor pick up the mail and newspapers. If on vacation also arrange to have the grass mowed or snow shoveled. Timers are also available that will open and close window shades. Their are even barking dog noisemakers that operate from motion sensors. Although not as effective as a full high tech security system, a friend told me that his scares the mailman almost every day!

Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Any valuables that can be seen through a window invite unwanted attention. Items such as computers, laptops, pocket books, cell phones or keys should be placed so they are not easily viewed from the home’s exterior. Another way of not letting the crooks know what valuables you have is to keep track of your garbage. For example, if you just bought a brand new wide screen television or stereo system don't just put the empty boxes out on garbage disposal night. It’s better to break up the boxes and place them inside garbage bags. While on the subject, keep in mind that thieves can gain a lot of information from the trash. All credit card information, bank statements, checks etc. should be shredded before being thrown out.

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