Burglaries within the Town of Davie neighborhoods cost residents thousands and thousands of dollars per year in loss of property alone. Most burglaries in your neighborhood are being committed by youths 18 and under. They are not skilled professionals, but they will take advantage of an easy target.
Don't make it easy for them!
1. Install a deadbolt lock:
Deadbolts are usually locked with a key from the outside and a thumb turn on the inside. The cylinder should be pick resistant. Lock your doors every time you leave the house, even if you're leaving for just a few minutes during the day. The most popular times for residential burglaries are weekday daylight hours. In many burglaries, there is no forcible entry--someone forgot to lock the doors.
2. Install solid doors:
Outside doors should be metal or solid hardwood and at least 1 3/4 inches thick. Frames must be made of equally strong material and each door must fit its frame securely.
3. Keep garage doors closed and locked at all times:
This includes all exterior doors and doors leading into the home from the garage.
4. Secure sliding doors and windows:
Cut a broom handle to the length of the bottom track so that the window or door will not
slide open when forced. Also, drill one hole through both casings and sliding window and insert a nail or pin.
5. Secure windows:
To prevent windows from being pried open, purchase a track lock that blocks the window track and prevents the window from being opened from the outside.
6. Mark your property:
Mark your valuables with an engraver. Use your driver’s license number. Marking your property serves as a deterrent to would-be burglars and it helps police in identifying and returning stolen property. Make a property identification list. Put warning stickers on doors and windows. Record all serial numbers to your valuables and keep in a safe place.
7. Purchase a burglar alarm:
A home alarm system can be a very effective burglary deterrent and fit into many people's needs. Remember to test your system monthly.
8. Leave a light on:
When leaving on trips, leave a light on in the bathroom. In the bedroom, attach a lamp and radio to a 24-hour electric timer set to go on at dusk and off at your bedtime. Close bedroom drapes or blinds.
9. Use proper exterior lighting:
Place a light over every door. Flood lights on each corner of the house will also light up windows.
10. Work together with your neighbors:
When you are going to be away, tell trusted neighbors and ask them to watch your property. Have neighbors maintain your yard. When on vacation, have someone cut grass. Shrubbery should not hide neighbors' view of windows or doors. Have someone pick up newspapers and mail. Tell neighbors to call police if they notice anything suspicious.
No one can make their home a fortress, but if you make your home just a little harder to gain access, you may deter criminals who are looking for an easy target.
11. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight:
When leaving your vehicle, ensure that no items of value can be seen from anyone on the outside. Items most sought after are cellphones, ipods, GPS devices, CD’s, purses, and any other electronic equipment. Secure valuables in the trunk or take them with you.
Even though you might live in a gated community please follow the above tips to ensure that you will not be a victim.
|
