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A very brief course in
Residential Target Hardening

Burgler
  1. Maintain the appearance of occupancy
  2. House numbers should be at least 4" to 6" high, reflective and visible from the street
  3. Good exterior lighting all around residence perimeter creates a psychological barrier. Consider motion activated light fixtures.
  4. Trim shrubbery away from windows, doorways and porches. Shrubbery and other barriers provide concealment for burglars.
  5. Exterior doors should be of solid construction with secure frames and locking hardware. Use a deadbolt with at least a 1" to 1-1/2" bolt throw. Treat door from garage to inside the house as an exterior door.
  6. Windows within 18 feet of the ground should be treated as first floor windows. Windows should be working and retro-fit with cost effective locking hardware.
  7. Insure that all exterior doors (including overhead garage door) are LOCKED when you are not home.
  8. Install a "Charlie Bar" or commercial locking device for sliding doors.
  9. Inventory and photograph your property.
  10. Join or start a Neighborhood Watch group.