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.

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