[Macs-241]

So how to protect your house from intruders​

Top Answer: Appearances Matter

1. Don't have anything valuable. Or at least, don't appear to.
2. Look like you care about upkeep and security. ...
3. Secure your air conditioners if they're in-window. ...
4. Avoid doors which have glass near the doorknob. ...
5. A large dog door (or cat door) can be a way in; secure it.
6. But mostly, don't look like a target.

Alternative Answer: Tips from a Burglar​

Some tips I remember from an interview with a burglar:

• Make it difficult for someone to conceal themselves while breaking in. Avoid tall/thick shrubs around your windows and doors. Avoid privacy fences.
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• Having good exterior lighting on a timer helps, but the best thing is a motion sensor floodlight. When a motion light kicks on, it says "Hey, something's going on over here."
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• Avoid having stuff in plain sight that says "We have lots of $$$." If you have an expensive car, keep it in a garage. If you have nice stuff in your house, keep your blinds closed. If you just bought a flatscreen, trash and conceal the box.
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• Burglars case a neighborhood before they rob it. They know when you leave for work. They know when your neighbors leave for work. If you have neighbors that are home during the day, it will make your house a riskier break-in.
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• If you have a security system, don't put one of those "Protected by ADT" stickers on your door. Knowing which brand of security system can provide enough info on how to disable it. Get a generic sticker.
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• Get a dog. The bark is more important than the bite. A little yappy dog can be more of a deterrent than a German Shepard.
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• Remember, the goal isn't to make your house completely break-in proof. It is simply to make your house a less attractive target than the other houses in your neighborhood. Look at the surrounding houses and adjust accordingly. Don't be the lowest-hanging fruit!

 

[Veggiepatch]

You forgot one thing.

When you are not home, keep you dog INSIDE the house, not in the backyard. The most "vicious" dog is as useful as a guinea pig while your possessions are being calmly stolen.