Home Safety Tips

When You Are at Home

  • Do not hide extra house keys under a doormat or in other obvious spots.
  • Engrave your valuables with a unique identification number recommended by the police. Check with local senior citizen centers for available services. Keep bonds, stock certificates, seldom-worn jewelry, and stamp and coin collections in a safe deposit box.
  • Get to know your neighbors and keep their telephone numbers handy for emergencies.
  • If you live alone, do not advertise it. Use only your first and middle initials in telephone books, directories, and apartment lobbies.
  • Install a viewer in your door, and use it.
  • Make your home appear occupied when you go out by using a timer to turn on lights and a radio.
  • Never let repair or sales persons into your home without checking their identification. Call their company to verify identity if you are not sure.
  • Protect windows and sliding glass doors with good locks or other security devices.
  • Use deadbolt locks on all exterior doors. Keep your doors locked at all times, even when you are inside.
  • Work out a buddy system with a friend to check on each other daily.