HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HOME WHILE AWAY 

Be sure to lock before you leave and let a neighbor have a key.  When leaving your home, practice the following advice—it could pay big, big dividends 

GOING TO THE MARKET OR OUT TO DINNER? 

A residence which presents a “lived-in” appearance is a deterrent to burglars.  Never leave notes that can inform a burglar that your house is unoccupied. Make certain all windows and doors are secured before departing.  An empty garage advertises your absence, so close the doors. 

When going out at night, leave one or more interior lights on and perhaps have a radio playing (TV sets should not be left unattended).  Timers may be purchased that will turn lights on and off during your absence. 

Do not leave door keys under flower pots or doormats, inside an unlocked mailbox, over the doorway, or in other places. 

WHEN PLANNING VACATIONS OR PROLONGED ABSENCES 

Discontinue all deliveries by phone or in person ahead of time.  Do not leave notes. 

Arrange for lawn care and have someone remove advertising circulars and other debris regularly.  On the other hand, several toys scattered about will create an impression of occupancy. 

Notify the post office to forward your mail or have a trustworthy person pick it up daily.  Apartment house tenants should also heed this hint since stuffed mail receptacles are a give-away when one is home.

Inform neighbors of your absence so they can be extra alert for suspicious persons.  Leave a key with them so your place may be periodically inspected.  Ask them to vary the positions of your shades and blinds.   

When you leave, do not publicize your plans.  Some burglars specialize in reading newspaper accounts of other people’s vacation activities. 

If you find a door or window has been forced or broken while you were away, DO NOT ENTER.  The criminal may still be inside.  Use a neighbor’s phone immediately to summon police.

Do not touch anything or clean up if a crime has occurred.  Preserve the scene until police inspect for evidence.

ALWAYS REMEMBER TO

1. Lock before you leave
2. Trust a neighbor with a key
3. Be a concerned neighbor yourself

Electronic Dog Watch

The Electronic Watch Dog is a unique alarm system that uses the same advanced technology as some police radar systems. With microwave technology, it is able to "see' through walls to determine when someone is approaching and how close they are. When an intruder comes within 20 feet, it begins barking like an angry German Shepherd. The closer they come, the more frequent and more threatening the barking becomes.