If you’re locked out of your home, can you still get in?
…through an unlocked window in the back, or using an extra key hidden under a flowerpot or up on a ledge?
Remember: if you can break in, so can a burglar! A small investment of time and money can make your home more secure and can reduce your chances of being a victim of burglary, assault or vandalism. Get to know your neighbors. Watchful neighbors who look out for you, as well as themselves, are a front-line defense against crime.
Basic Rules:
- Make sure that all doors to the outside are metal or solid.
- Make sure all doors to the outside have good, sturdy locks.
- Use the locks you have. Always lock up your home when you go out, even if it’s “only for a few minutes.”
- Secure sliding glass doors with commercially available bars or locks, or put a wooden dowel or broomstick in the door track.
- Make sure your windows, especially at ground level, have good locks – and use them!
- Make sure all porches and other possible entrances are well lighted.
- Trim any bushes or trees that hide doors or windows. Keep ladders, tools, toys and recreational equipment inside when you’re not using them.
- Don’t hide your house keys under the door mat.
- Keep written records of all furniture, jewelry and electronic products. If possible, keep these records in a safe deposit box, fire-proof safe or other secure place. Take pictures or a video, and keep purchase information and serial numbers if available. These help law enforcement agencies track recovered items.
Remember, report anything suspicious in your neighborhoods to the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office! Our non-emergency line is 941-639-0013.