1.
Thoroughly assess your home for susceptibility. If you can break
in, so can a burglar.
2.
Replace exterior hollow-core doors (which are easily kicked
in) with solid doors.
3.
Make sure doors have appropriate locks. Install proper dead
bolts on all exterior doors. Keep doors locked at all times.
4.
Check all windows, making sure they are equipped with appropriate
locks and keep them locked. (If keyed locks are used, keys should
be easily accessible in case of fire.)
5.
Sliding doors may need additional locks to prevent the doors
from being lifted from their tracks and opened.
6.
Trim shrubs and bushes around your home so that they do not
provide good cover for an intruder.
7.
The exterior of your home should be well lighted at night.
8.
Make your home look occupied: pick up newspapers and mow the
lawn so that intruders don't think they have found an easy target.
Use timers to turn on and off lights when not at home.
9.
Keep your garage door closed. Lock any door leading from the
garage to the house. Additional locks, such as cane bolts and
hasps provide excellent protection.
10.
Place Command Force Security stickers on windows and doors:
burglars are less likely to target homes with security systems
and signs.