DC Metro Area Personal Injury Law Blog

Unfortunately, vacation season doesn't go unnoticed among thieves.  Before you take any extended trips this season, take a moment to evaluate your home's security and reduce your potential for burglary.  The Home Safety Council recommends the following to safeguard your home while you're away:

• "Put bright lights over porches and walkways in the front and back.
• All doors to the outside should have working locks.
• Garage and shed doors need working locks too.
• All windows should have working locks.
• Before you leave, walk through each room of your home to make sure all doors to the outside, sliding doors, and windows are securely locked.
• If you have an automatic garage door, always, look over your shoulder before leaving the driveway to ensure the garage door has completely closed behind you.
• Keep bushes and shrubs trimmed under windows so burglars can’t hide in them.
• Keep ladders stored in a locked shed or garage so they can’t be used to climb into your home.
• Keep shades or curtains closed over garage and shed windows.
• Keep shades or curtains closed over your home windows after dark.
• Don’t leave toys, tools and equipment in the yard.
• Make your home look like someone is there. Consider using timers to turn selected lights on and off automatically. Timers are also available for outdoor water sprinklers.
• Do yard work before you leave.
• Have a family member or friend bring in your mail and newspaper while you are gone. Give them a key to keep at their home; do not leave a key in a hiding place.
• If you use an answering machine, do not record a message that indicates you are out of town."