Home Burglary Prevention
by Stephen Hauck
CBS 42 News
2008-05-07 20:00:00.0
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With the summer approaching, many of you are making plans for a vacation getaway. But you're not the only one looking forward to you leaving…so are burglars. So what can you do to keep from becoming the next home burglary victim?
Whether you own a large mansion or live in a much more humble home, you're still a high risk target for being cleaned-out while you're on vacation.
The average burglar wants it quick and easy, hoping to avoid confrontation with anyone. That's why law enforcement experts say the number one key to protecting your home while you're away is creating the illusion that you're not.
"If you normally keep a vehicle in the garage, if you're gonna be gone, it might be a good idea to actually park the vehicle outside the garage. It gives the illusion that someone's at the residence," said Detective Sergeant Juan Rodriquez.
Other ways to create the illusion that someone is staying at your home is having the post office hold your mail, or ask a neighbor to collect it. And the same can be done with your newspaper. Few things are a bigger indicator that your home's been empty for days than a pile of papers stacked in the drive-way.
And, let's not forget about lighting. Outdoor lights with motion detectors are a great deterrent against burglars. And, as for indoor lighting, "You can even buy the light timers where you have your lights in your home set on timing systems, so periodically the lights will come on so it gives the appearance that people are there," said Rodriquez.
Alarm systems are also recommended. Not only will the signs deter many would-be thieves, but the alarming sound will usually send the more daring robbers scattering immediately.
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"If you're gonna do an alarm system in the residence, motion detectors, glass breaks, the door switches, all of those are excellent ways of preventing break-ins," said Rodriquez.
And, for those with a slightly bigger budget, Rodriquez recommends going high-tech.
“It doesn't hurt to have an actual video system set up in your home. They have some now that you can actually monitor on the internet, while you're away from home, which is a way to check on your house yourself," said Rodriquez.
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