Summer Home Security Tips

• Jul 12, 2011

The Home Safety Council offers tips to keep your home safe this summer.

Turn Up the Lights

• Put bright lights over porches and walkways in the front and back.
  

Lock It Up

• All doors to the outside should have working locks.
  
• Garage and shed doors need working locks too.
  
• All windows should have working locks.
  
• Keep all doors to the outside, sliding doors, and windows locked.
  

Be Able to Get Out

• Make sure everyone can open all locks from inside your home.
  
• Don't have deadbolt locks that lock with an inside key. You need to get out fast if a fire starts. A missing key could trap you inside.
  
• Replace inside-key locks with deadbolt locks that have a “thumb turn” instead of an indoor key.
  
• Make sure everyone in your family can reach the “thumb turn” latch.
  
• Have window locks that open from inside. Do not nail windows shut. Make sure they open easily.
  
• If you have security bars on doors and windows, have a “quick-release” latch. This makes it easy to get outside in an emergency.
  
• Make sure everyone in your family knows how to use the latch.
  

Don't Help Intruders

• Keep bushes and shrubs trimmed under windows so burglars can't hide.
  
• Keep ladders stored in a locked shed or garage so they can't be used to climb into your home.
  
• Keep shades or curtains closed over garage and shed windows.
  
• Keep shades or curtains closed over your home windows after dark.
  
• Don't leave toys, tools and equipment in the yard.
  

When You're Gone a Few Days

• Make your home look like someone is there.
  
• Do yard work before you leave.
  
• Have a family member or friend bring in your mail and newspaper while you are gone.