Core

Residential Security

Residential security is a critical component of any personal security program. The following guidelines should be used in reviewing your residential security. 

• All entrances, including service doors and gates, should have quality locks--preferably deadbolt. Check your:
  
  • Front Door
  • Rear Door
  • Garage Door(s)
  • Service Door(s)
  • Patio Door
  • Sliding Glass Door
  • Gate
  • Swimming Pool Gate
  • Guest House Door(s).
    
    
• Don't leave keys "hidden" outside the home. Leave an extra key with a trusted neighbor or colleague.
  
  
• Keep doors locked even when you or family members are at home.
  
  
• Have window locks installed on all windows. Use them.
  
  
• Lock louvered windows--especially on the ground floor.
  
  
• Have locks installed on your fuse boxes and external power sources. 
  
  
• If you have window grilles and bars, review fire safety. Don't block bedroom windows with permanent grilles if the windows may be used for emergency escape. 
  
  
• If you have burglar or intrusion alarms, check and use them. 
  
  
• Keep at least one fire extinguisher on each floor, and be sure to keep one in the kitchen. Show family members and household help how to use them. 
  
  
• Periodically check smoke detectors and replace batteries when necessary. 
  
  
• Keep flashlights in several areas in the house. Check the batteries often, especially if you have children in your home. (They love to play with flashlights!) 
  
  
• A family dog can be a deterrent to criminals. But remember, even the best watch-dog can be controlled by food or poison. Do not install separate "doggy doors" or entrances. They also can admit small intruders. 
  
  
• Choose a location that offers the most security. The less remote, the safer your home will be, particularly in a neighborhood close to police and fire protection. 
  
  
• Know your neighbors. Develop a rapport with them and offer to keep an eye on each other's homes, especially during trips. 
  
  
• If you observe any unusual activity, report it immediately to your Community Police Forum. 
  
  
• Establish safe family living patterns. If you understand the importance of your contribution to the family's overall security, the entire household will be safer. 
  
  
• While at home, you and your family should rehearse safety drills and be aware of procedures to escape danger and get help. 
  
  
• Educate family members and domestic help in the proper way to answer the telephone at home. 
  
  
• Vary daily routines; avoid predictable patterns. 
  
  
• Know where all family members are at all times. 
  
  
• Use these same guidelines while on leave or in travel status.