Security Tips

Engrave your goods. Note down the serial numbers of electronic appliances (many police departments can provide you with an engraving tool).

According to US survey of housebreakers in custody, the best dissuasion is a security system linked to a recognized company.

Reinforce your doors and windows. Metal doors with inside hinges are recommended, so are double locks (one third of housebreakers enter through a basement window).

Make sure the air conditioner located in your window cannot be removed from the outside.

Fences and bushes could make your home more accessible to burglars (this is often forgotten when landscaping or when snow piles up).

Do not keep cash at home.

Leaving the lights on when you are not home is as sure a sign of your absence as when they are off (rather a timer controlling the lights at strategic locations is recommended).

Leave your radio on an AM station on, to simulate a conversation.

During a long stay away from home, ask a neighbor to park his car in your driveway. .

Ask someone you trust to pick up your mail, to mow the lawn or remove snow, and leave him/her a key so she/he can check your home.