Beachwood Civic Association

Tips On Neighborhood Crime Prevention -– Part 2

Sep 25, 2004

Outside Your Home

The exterior of your home should be free from offering concealment to a burglar. A house with doors and windows in full view is a psychological deterrent because an intruder is forced to work in the open where he risks detection. Here?’s how you can discourage a burglar:

Keep shrubs trimmed away from windows and doors so you don?’t provide a convenient hiding space for a burglar.

Maintain adequate exterior lighting, especially on vulnerable access points to your home.

Don?’t leave ladders around the exterior of your house where they can be used by a burglar to gain entrance.

Don?’t leave valuables such as lawnmowers, bicycles or tools in the yard or in an open or unlocked garage or shed. Your tools could be used to break into your home.

Keep garage door closed and locked at all times. The door leading from the garage to the house is a favorite access point for a burglar.

Display house numbers conspicuously and have it well illuminated. This will aid the police, medical or other emergency vehicles in finding your home quickly if summoned. Urge your neighbors to do the same ?– you may be calling them or vice versa.

Never leave notes that can inform a burglar that your house is unoccupied.