Sherwood Estates III

While You Are Away From Home

May 07, 2001

Contributed by Stan Kaminski


The Burglary Prevention Council suggests making your home look like it's occupied while you're away. Do the following:

*Keep some window shades and blinds up or curtains open, but keep valuables out of sight.

*Stop mail and newspaper deliveries or have a neighbor pick them up, so they don't pile up. Ask a neighbor to use your trashcans while you're away. Don't indicate on your answering machine message that you'll be away. Check and erase messages daily.

*Install exterior lights that are out of reach of burglars, and place timers on indoor lights and appliances. Put a time on a radio which is set to a talk show or other station.

*For longer trips, arrange to have outdoor landscaping continue.

*Have a neighbor park a car in your driveway occasionally.

*Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your home.