No building is absolutely burglar proof. Burglars are the first to admit that they target buildings that appear unsecured or lack security. The checklist below will help you assess the security of your home or business. Every NO checked shows a potential weak point that may let a burglar in.

• Do you carry keys so that you do not need a hidden key under the mat or some other location around the building?
• Do you know everyone who has a key to your building? (Do previous occupants have keys?)
• Are the doors or windows unobstructed by shrubbery to permit maximum visibility?
• Is your landscaping trimmed to eliminate hiding places?
• Are there exterior lights around the building front, back and sides?
• Do the porch lights have a minimum of 60 watt bulbs?
• Are you exterior doors made of solid core materials?
• Do all exterior doors have wide angle viewers (peep holes)?
• Do the exterior doors have a cylinder type dead bolt with a one-inch throw and beveled cylinder guard?
• Do the exterior doors have a heavy slide type bolt or similar locking device which can only be opened from inside?
• Can all of your doors be securely locked?
• Does your basement door have a lock which isolates that area?
• Are the locks in good working order – including strike plates with 3" screws?
• Do all of the exterior doors have inside hinges or locking/pinned non-removable hinges?
• Do sliding doors have a secondary lock that prevents sliding?
• Is the garage door secured with a padlock, hasp or auxiliary lock?
• Do you lock you garage door except when going in or out of it?
• Do you lock the door between the garage and the interior?
• Do you lock your car, remove the keys and garage door opener when parked in the driveway or in front?
• Are all window locks in working order and secure in the frame?
• Are all windows equipped with auxiliary locks or pinned?
• Have you replaced or secured (glass epoxy) louvered windows?
• Do you keep your windows locked when they are shut?
• Are there strong locks on the garage & utility areas windows?
• Do you close and lock the second floor windows when not home?
• Do you let your neighbors know you are out of town so they can watch your home our business?
• Do you have neighbors or friends collect papers and mail?
• Do you have lights and radios inside the building on timers?
• Do you have someone to put out the trash and mow the lawns if you are gone for a long period?