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Learn how to protect yourself and
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Part 8: How to Protect Your Home While
Away
Be sure to lock before you leave, and let a neighbor have a key.
When leaving your home, practice the following advice - it could
pay big, big dividends.
GOING TO THE MARKET OR OUT TO
DINNER? A residence which presents a "lived-in" appearance
is a deterrent to burglars. Never leave notes that can inform
a burglar that your house is unoccupied. Make certain all windows
and doors are secured before departing. An empty garage advertises
your absence, so close the doors.
When going out at night, leave
one or more interior lights on and perhaps have a radio playing
(TV sets should not be left unattended). Timers may be purchased
that will turn lights on and off during your absence.
Do not leave door keys under
flower pots or doormats, inside an unlocked mailbox, over the
doorway, or in other obvious places.
WHEN PLANNING VACATIONS OR PROLONGED
ABSENCES - Discontinue milk, newspaper, and other deliveries
by phone or in person ahead of time. Do not leave notes.
Arrange for lawn care and have
someone remove advertising circulars and other debris regularly.
On the other hand, several toys scattered about will create an
impression of occupancy.
Notify the post office to forward
your mail or have a trustworthy person pick it up daily. Apartment
house tenants should also heed this hint since stuffed mail receptacles
are a give-away when no one is home.
Inform neighbors of your absence
so they can be extra alert for suspicious persons. Leave a key
with them so your place may be periodically inspected. Ask them
to vary the positions of your shades and blinds.
When you leave, do not publicize
your plans. Some burglars specialize in reading newspaper accounts
of other people's vacation activities.
If you find a door or window
has been forced or broken while you were away, DO NOT ENTER.
The criminal may still be inside. Use a neighbor's phone immediately
to summon police.
Do not touch anything or clean
up if a crime has occurred. Preserve the scene until police inspect
for evidence.
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO -
1. Lock before you leave.
2. Trust a neighbor with a key.
3. Be a concerned neighbor -
yourself.
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