Home Security Checklist

Below is a home security checklist. Print this list and use it to perform an evaluation of 
your home. Put a checkmark next to each statement that is true for your home and family. 
For any statement that is not checked, you may want to consider whether you need 
additional security devices or new procedures in your home.

Exterior Doors
We always lock all our doors at night and every time we leave the house.
Our doors are solid hardwood or metal-clad.
Update Locks-use deadbolts
Don't Leave an Extra Key-if you can think of a place to hide one, so can a burglar!
Check before opening a door.  Our doors feature wide-angle peepholes.  
If there are glass panels in or near our door, they are reinforced in some way so they can't be shattered.
All entryways to our home have a working, keyed entry lock and deadbolt lock.
Our deadbolt locks offer high-security features
Garage and Sliding Door Security
The door leading from the attached garage to the house is protected with a quality, keyed door lock and deadbolt
We have a lock for the garage door and do not rely on the automatic opener to provide security.
We make sure the garage doors are locked when leaving the house.
The sliding glass door (if there is one) has strong, working locks or we use a device such as a security bar for protection.
We always check to make sure the sliding door is locked at night and when leaving the house.
Protecting Windows
Every window in the house has a working lock
We always lock the windows, even when they are opened a few inches for ventilation.
Outdoor Lighting
We trim the bushes and shrubs so there is no place for someone to hide.
There are no dark areas around our house, garage or yard.
The light bulbs for our outdoor areas are in good working order.
We use floodlights to ensure effective illumination.
We always turn on the outdoor lights in the evening - whether someone is at home or not (or use a photocell or motion-sensitive lighting system)
Security Away From Home
When leaving home, we have at least two light timers that are set to turn the lights on and off in a logical sequence.
When leaving home, we activate the motion detector or other alarm system (if we have one).
When away from home, we always stop the mail and newspaper deliveries.
When away from home, we ask a neighbor to tend the yard and watch our home.
Personal Property and Outdoor Valuables
Gate latches, and garage and shed doors are all locked with high-security, laminated padlocks.
We always lock gate, garage and shed doors after every use.
Grills, lawn mowers and other valuables are stored in a locked garage or shed, or if left out in the open, are hidden from view with a tarp and securely locked to a stationary point.
Every bicycle is secured with a U-bar lock or quality padlock and chain.
We always lock our bikes, even if we leave them for "just a minute."
Keep serial numbers of cameras, watches, tv's, etc.
Firearms are stored unloaded and locked in storage boxes or secured with trigger guard locks.
Never carry large sums of cash, flasing money invites trouble.
Don't resist an armed robber
Loud screams or flight may protect you from a strong arm robber
Stay off dark streets
Educate your children about child molesters & sex offenders
Know where your children are
Call Police if you see a crime.  Don't investigate yourself
Lock your car when you leave it
Keep your registration with you
Obey the law yourself!  Set a good example.

You can't stop crime from happening, but you can decrease the likelihood that you or your home is targeted. 
You can also join or start a Neighborhood Watch group to address crime in your community. 
For additional information, contact your local crime prevention officer.