Too bad we can't bring the house along. Besides getting caught up with all the yard work before we leave, there's always a nagging worry about the security of our empty house.
The folks at the lock company Weiser have come up with some good ideas that might help protect your home and your belongings from the attention of thieves while you're away.
Leaving a car parked in the driveway gives the appearance that someone is home.
Good exterior lighting around your perimeter creates a psychological barrier.
Make sure all exterior doors have deadbolts with at least a one-inch throwbolt.
Keep your doors locked at all times. Half of all break-ins are through unlocked doors.
Going out of town? Give your neighbour a house key so she can check in.
Help the police help you. Make sure you keep your street address visible. When affixing numbers to your house, make sure they are at least four inches high, reflective and visible from the street.
Park your car outside? Always lock your vehicle and consider taking your garage door opener with you instead of leaving it in the car.
Been at the same house for a while? Replace your outside locks as you've probably given out your house key a lot through the years.
Backyard secure? Consider installing a fence and plant fast-growing bushes as extra barriers around the exterior of your home.
Start a Neighbourhood Watch program -- it's the most effective method of keeping your home safe.
Keep an extra key outside your house? Not a good idea. Burglars know all the hiding spots. Instead, leave a key with a trusted neighbour. Better yet, install a keyless entry system. For more information, check out weiserlock.ca.
-- Canwest News Service
