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STEP 1 - LIST ALL VALUABLES
In addition to listing it is recommended that you etch all property in two places with your drivers license number and the state abbreviation. EXAMPLE: KY 1000000
For nondescriptive articles such as jewelry, coins, antiques, etc.;
- Photograph the articles.
- List the information needed on the back of the pictures.
- Once you have completed the information, store this document with other important papers in a safe place.
STEP 2 - DOOR & WINDOW SECURITY
All exterior doors should be secured with the following:
- Quality single cylinder deadbolt, with 1" throw, for solid doors.
- Quality double cylinder deadbolt, with 1" throw, for glass style doors.
- 190 degree peephole or interviewing grill to view front.
- Hinge studs for the hinges.
- Heavy-duty lock strike with 4" screws.
- All casement and louvered windows should be secured with the following:
- Casement lock device.
- Louver window "S" style anti-movement device.
- Security grill bars.
All sliding glass doors should be secured with the following to prevent vertical and horizontal movement:
- Anti-lift devices.
- Patio security pin.
- Keyed patio door lock.
- Charlie bar.
All wood style windows should be secured with the following:
Keyed sash window lock.
Ventilation window lock.
- Wood or metal rods in window track.
All metal style windows should be secured with the following to prevent vertical or horizontal movement:
- Anti-lift devices.
- Thumb turn locking devices.
- Keyed sliding window locks.
All garage doors should be secured with the following:
- Heavy duty padlock covering.
- Garage slide bolt.
- Quality padlock for the garage slide bolt.
- Cane bolt on the lower inside center into cement floor.
STEP 3 - LIGHTING
For cost effective exterior interior security, the following is recommended:
For exterior lighting;
- Place 40 watt bulb at the front entrance, 60 watt bulbs at back & side entrances.
- In addition, place flood lights under eave corners.
For interior lighting;
- Place lights timers in rooms that would give the appearance of normal living habits.
- Radios and TV's can be tied into the timer circuits also.
STEP 4 - SMOKE ALARMS & SAFES
For additional self-assurance, the following is recommended:
- Place smoke detectors where you and family members can be alerted quickly.
- Secure valuables and important documents in a fire-rated safe, or fire proof safety deposit box.
- Keep a fire extinguisher on each floor of your home and be sure each family member can use it.
- Keep any firearms in a safe vault.
STEP 5 - ADDITIONAL SECURITY STEPS
- Place emergency numbers near phones.
- Lock outside power and fuse boxes.
- Trim shrubbery to provide good visibility.
- Join the neighborhood awareness programs.
- If you live alone, be sure that exterior mailbox name plates conceal that fact.
- Inform a trusted neighbor when you are going to be away for any length of time.
- Also, inform the newspaper delivery service, milkman, post office, etc.
- Never open a door without knowing who is there.
- Do not admit strangers.
- Be alert to strangers in your neighborhood. Jot down license numbers, car descriptions description of person(s)
- For extra protection, install a burglar & fire alarm system.
- For additional window protection - install wrought-iron bars, but only with panic exit releases.
Preventative Steps 1-5, and a consultation with your local Association Security Professional, will go a long way in keeping you, your loved ones and your property from becoming another crime statistic.
Vacation or Traveling Plan
BEFORE YOU LEAVE
- Have your vacation planned out. Know where you are going and where you should be at certain times.
- Take phone numbers of relatives or friends with you in case of emergencies that arise.
- Make sure you pack flashlights and flares in your travel kit.
- Inform only a trusted neighbor and police of your travel plans. Then they can watch your home while you're gone.
- Don't leave extra keys under door mats or flower pots. Instead, give them to the trusted neighbor watching your home.
- Stop deliveries, such as milk, paper and mail.
- Make provisions for someone to cut your lawn.
- Have your neighbors check the inside of your home daily and change the position of window coverings every few days.
- Keep records of the serial numbers of each major valuable purchased with you or in a safe place. (Photo or engrave)
- Use electric timers that will automatically turn interior and exterior lights on or off.
- Double check all windows and doors for total security. Secure all areas of weakness before you leave.
WHILE TRAVELING
- Don't leave your keys with parking attendant.
- Carry a smoke & intrusion alarm with you while staying in a motel or hotel.
- Lock car doors at all times.
- Do not leave valuables (camera, money, jewelry, etc.) in hotel room or exposed in your vehicle.
- Witness all repair work of your vehicle, if necessary and possible.
Don't flash money or valuables around. Carry small dollars and change, etc.
- Don't let strangers borrow your property.
- Don't leave children unattended while shopping or when going out for a short time.
- Carry a portable travel lock for additional security at hotel doors.
WHEN YOU RETURN
- Check all doors and windows to be sure no intrusion attempts were made while you were away.
- Make sure everything is in its right place.
- Start deliveries again.
- Let neighbors know you are home.
- RELAX!
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