Don't Invite Burglars In...

By Cathy Brooks
Posted Wednesday, July 13, 2005

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Imagine coming home to find that someone has broken into your home and stolen valuable items and ransacked your personal possessions.

The feeling of devastation and loss of security can be overwhelming for victims of burglary. It’s a crime to which we are all vulnerable—whether we live in a city or rural area, have a high or low income, live in a house, townhome, apartment or condominium.

According to the FBI, a burglary happens every 15 seconds in the United States. It’s a serious crime. The problem is many of us, through our own carelessness, make it easier for burglars to carry out their work. A few simple steps can make your home a harder target for burglars.

Lock all outside doors before you leave or go to bed.

• Lock all windows.
• Leave a few lights on when you are not home.
• Keep all garage doors closed and locked.
• Don’t allow daily deliveries, like newspapers and mail, to pile up when you are out of town. Ask a friend or neighbor to pick them up for you, or arrange to have deliveries stopped until you return.
• When you’re on vacation, arrange to have someone take car of your yard work.

Other things to consider…

• Contact a locksmith for advice on pick-resistant locks for your doors, sliding glass doors and windows.
• Don’t leave keys under flowerpots, doormats or other “secret” hiding places…burglars know them all.
• Keep a detailed inventory of all your personal passions. Include a description of the items, date of purchase, original value and any serial numbers. A videotape can be helpful.
• Be a good neighbor; if you notice anything suspicious in your neighborhood, contact the police immediately.

State Farm agent and Forsyth County resident Harry Hudson is located at 11350 Old Alabama Connector, Suite 6, Alpharetta, GA 30022. 770-587-3505.

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