Ridgewood Park Crime Prevention and Civic Association (CPCA)

Protect Yourself From Break-Ins

Aug 08, 2003

Preventing household break in is not a science and there is much you can do to prevent robberies. It all begins with not giving thieves an opportunity. Never make things easy for them. Be vigilant about it If you consistently perform the following, you'll take great strides to preventing break-ins and theft around your home.
DO THESE THINGS EVERY DAY !!
Whether you're going to the corner store for fifteen minutes, or leaving town for two weeks, lock your doors and seal your windows. Don't give a break-in artist any chance, whatsoever, from a door that is unlocked or ajar, to an accessible open window.
Remember the locks on your doors are only as strong as the weakest link. If you use deadbolts on your front and back doors, but only a latch from the garage to the house-watch out ! Preventing a frightening experience of a home robbery can hinge solely on the quality of your doors and locks. Have them inspected by a qualified locksmith if you have any doubts.
Ensure that your windows especially those at ground level, or those near trees or balconies-have locks or stops that prevent them from being opened wide from the outside. Using burglar bars or break resistance glass are also good ideas.
Leaving a radio or television on while you are out is a time tested trick to ward off thieves. Talk radio is the best, because it can sound like everyday conversation.
Over 50% of all break in are crimes of opportunity. These are situations where intruders are virtually invited by unlocked windows and doors. Beyond issuing an open invitation to intruders by leaving theings unlocked, some homeowners often make things even more inviting by providing shubbery to conceal actions and the cover of darkness to work within. These homeowners should be listed as accomplices to the crimes that befall their homes since they do everything possible to assist in the crime.
In contrast , a few simple guidelines can make your home as tight as a proverbial bug in a rug, affording you greater safety while yo'u're away !
1. Trim back any shrubs and bushes near windows and doors that might provide cover for a burglar.
2. Leave a radio or TV on while you are out of the home
3. Close drapes and shades when you're out to prevent looky-loos
4. Add outdoor security lighting with a motion detector on/off control
5. Always watch for unusual activity and new faces near your home