Keeping Your Home Safe

Burglars and intruders look for homes that appear easy to access. If your home looks unoccupied, unsecured, or unprotected, it becomes a target. A few smart improvements — along with a professionally monitored system — can make a significant difference in keeping your family safe.

To start, take a careful look at every entry point and consider how your home appears from the outside.

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Doors and Windows

Your first line of defense.

• Use Strong Locks: Install high-quality deadbolts on all exterior doors. Deadbolts provide a level of security that simple spring-latch locks cannot match.
• Always Lock Up: Whether you’re leaving for the day or stepping out for a moment, make locking up a habit. Many break-ins happen through unlocked doors.
• Secure Windows: Check that all windows and sliding glass doors have modern, working locks. Consider adding secondary latches for extra protection.
• Reinforce Sliding Entries: Use wooden dowels or steel bars in sliding tracks to prevent them from being forced open. This simple step drastically increases resistance to break-ins.

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Visibility from the Street

A visible home is a safer home.

• Check Sightlines: Stand outside and look at your home as an intruder would. Are your doors and windows easily seen from the street or neighboring homes? Hidden entry points make your home more vulnerable.
• Trim Shrubs and Trees: Overgrown landscaping provides perfect hiding spots for intruders. Keep bushes low, remove obstructions, and ensure all entry points are clearly visible.

Good visibility discourages criminals — and helps neighbors spot unusual activity quickly.