|
You Are Going On
Vacation - Help Burglars Take One Too!
An empty house is a tempting target for a burglar.
One of the times your home is most vulnerable is when it is left
empty for an extended period of time. Darkened windows, mail or
newspapers collecting and closed windows in hotter weather all
advertise your absence to a potential burglar. Use this checklist of tips to help safeguard your home while you're
away.
· Have
good locks on all doors and windows and USE THEM!
· Ask
a neighbor to watch the house while you're away. It's a good idea to
leave your vacation address and telephone number with a neighbor so
you can be reached in case of an emergency.
· Never
leave your house key hidden outside your home.
· Stop
all deliveries, or arrange for a neighbor to pick up your mail,
newspapers and packages.
· Arrange
for someone to mow your lawn, rake leaves and maintain the yard to
give the home a lived-in look. Plants slowly dying due to lack of
water may announce your absence.
· Plug
in timers to turn lights, a radio or television on and off at
appropriate times. This helps to disguise the fact that you are
away.
· Don't
announce your absence on answering machine messages.
· Leave
your blinds, shades and curtains in a normal position. Don't close
them unless that is what you do when you are home.
· Close
and lock garage doors and windows. Ask a neighbor to occasionally
park in your driveway. If you leave your car at home, park it as you
normally would. Vehicles parked outside should be moved occasionally
to appear that they are being used.
· Tell
your local police you plan to be away. Patrol officers may have the
opportunity to periodically check your home.
· Engrave
your valuables as recommended in Operation I.D. This simple step
will allow your stolen property to be identified and returned to you
if recovered by the police.
· Check
your lease. Many landlords require that you notify them if your
apartment is going to be left empty for any period of time (this is
so they can enter in case of emergency even if they can't reach
you). If you've got a house sitter this isn't necessary.
Traveling Safety
· If
you are driving, make sure your vehicle has been properly serviced
and is in suitable condition for the journey.
· Try
to have specific directions and routes to your destination.
· If
you get lost, call the local police for directions or assistance.
· Always
keep your vehicle doors and windows locked.
· At
stop lights and other traffic delays, leave enough space in front of
your vehicle so that you have an escape option in case of an
emergency.
· Let
someone know the route you intend to travel and your itinerary. This
will help authorities in locating you if there is a need to do so.
· Plan
your trip carefully and allow for factors such as weather, fatigue,
facilities for lodging, food and fuel. Be sure you have sufficient
finances, either cash, travelers checks or credit cards.
· Ask
the hotel or motel staff about their security measures so you know
what to expect.
· Use
the hotel safe to store your valuables during your stay.
Helpful Self
Defense and Personal Protection Products
Voice Alert Driveway/Home Alarm
Door Braces
Mini Alert PIR Alarm
Volumetric Air Pressure Alarm
Motion Alarm with Keypad
Window Glass Breakage Alarm
TeleSpy Intruder Alert
Electronic Barking Dog
Magnetic Door/Window Alarm
Pepper Shot 1/2 oz. Auto Visor |