Home Security

Planning a vacation? Invest some time to review your home's security and to make improvements that will keep it from being vulnerable to break-ins. The Home Safety Council is committed to helping you enhance the safety and security of your home, even when you're away. Print out this checklist before you leave on your next trip. Walk around the perimeter of your home and objectively evaluate its vulnerability. Try to look at it the way an intruder or thief would, and make changes well before you leave town.

Turn Up the Lights

Put bright lights over porches and walkways in the front and back.

Lock It Up

	All doors to the outside should have working locks. Garage and shed doors need working locks too.
	All windows should have working locks.
	Keep all doors to the outside, sliding doors, and windows locked.

Be Able to Get Out

	Make sure everyone can open all locks from inside your home. Don’t have deadbolt locks that lock with an inside key. You need to get out fast if a fire starts. A missing key could trap you inside.
	Replace inside-key locks with deadbolt locks that have a “thumb turn” instead of an indoor key. Make sure everyone in your family can reach the “thumb turn” latch.
	Have window locks that open from inside. Do not nail windows shut. Make sure they open easily.
	If you have security bars on doors and windows, have a “quick-release” latch. This makes it easy to get outside in an emergency. Make sure everyone in your family knows how to use the latch.

Don’t Help Intruders

	Keep bushes and shrubs trimmed under windows so burglars can’t hide.
	Keep ladders stored in a locked shed or garage so they can’t be used to climb into your home. Keep shades or curtains closed over garage and shed windows. Keep shades or curtains closed over your home windows after dark. Don’t leave toys, tools and equipment in the yard.

When You're Gone a Few Days

	Make your home look like someone is there.
	Do yard work before you leave.
	Have a family member or friend bring in your mail and newspaper while you are gone.

Before you drive away, double-check to be sure all doors and windows are locked and light timers are set. Make sure you've provided relatives or friends with your contact information so you can be reached in an emergency.