MY HOME IS MY HAVEN

No one likes to be caught unawares, 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:

• Rear Door
• Front 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. I remember that is how my grandparents gave I and my Sibling access to their home anytime we came around “unannounced”. Preferably, 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 egress.
• 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

  

  know your neighbor

  trips.

• If you observe any unusual activity, report it immediately to your Residential Security Officer.
• 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.