AWAY FROM HOME

It is important to take extra care in securing your home when you are going away for any extended time. Not only should your home be secure but it should also appear lived in.

PREVENTION TIPS:

◗ Lock all windows, doors and garages before you leave. ◗ Leave a radio playing to show that someone is home. ◗ Leave one or two lights on, or use timers that turn on according to how dark it is. ◗ Stop mail and newspaper deliveries. ◗ Arrange to have someone pick up any newspapers, mail or flyers left on your doorstep. ◗ Leave a key with someone you trust. ◗ Let a trusted neighbour know you’re going to be away, for how long, and how they can contact you if necessary. ◗ Arrange to have someone cut the grass or shovel the snow if you plan to be away for several days.

SECURITY IN YOUR HOME – CONT. ◗ Keep all entrances and garages well-lit at night. ◗ Don’t leave tell-tale signs that you are away, such as leaving your curtains undrawn at night, an absence of a car in the driveway, dark house (lights off) and telling your friends and family on social media about an upcoming holiday. ◗ Install good locks and always use them. ◗ Install a wide-angle viewer in your front door which allows you to see visitors before you open the door. ◗ Never open a door to strangers without credentials. ◗ Change your routine often. Burglars often watch activities in a neighbourhood. ◗ Don’t keep large amounts of money in your home. ◗ Mark valuable items for identification. The operation identification program has been developed by police to assist people in marking their property. ◗ Keep valuables in a safety deposit box at your bank. If this isn’t possible, keep them locked up in a reasonable hiding place in your home.

TIP: A few inexpensive but rich-looking pieces kept in the jewelry box as a decoy may deter criminals from further damaging your home in search of valuables.