Don't leave a ladder outside your home. Why make it easy for them?

Purchase a timer that will turn on your lights automatically and light up your house when you're away.

If you are going to be gone for an extended period of time, arrange to have your lawn mowed, leaves raked. In the colder areas, you should have your drive and walks shoveled.

Have your mail held at the post office.

Have your paper delivery stopped until you come back.

Don't leave notes on the door announcing your absence. A note saying you'll be back at 6:00 tells the thief he has plenty of time to ransack your home and take your possessions.

When you are gone, leave your furnace or central air on low so that the motor can still be heard. This says that you won't be gone long.

When service men come to your home, ask for an ID and don't be afraid to call the company for verification.

When you see a strange vehicle on your street jot down the license plate number. If you see strangers sitting in the vehicle, call the police and have them investigate.

If you arrive home and find the door open, DO NOT go inside. Go to a neighbors house and call the police. Let them go inside first and make sure the intruders are not still there.

Don't keep excess cash around the house, keep it in a savings or checking account.

Keep important papers and negotiable securities in a safe deposit box. A safe deposit box costs very little and quite often is free with your checking or savings account.

Take pictures of your heirlooms and personal items for later identification.

Mark all electronic equipment with a permanent etching of your name and drivers license number or social security number. This helps identify property and makes it hard for the thief to sell.

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