Blythe, California (NAPSI) - Staying safe at home can be simpler for you and your family if you heed a few hints from personal security expert Robert Siciliano, CEO of ID Theft Security, and private investigator Robin Martinelli, of Martinelli Investigations Inc.
What to Put in Place
• An alarm system can run the gamut from basic noisemakers to complex notification programs, many with sophisticated options and service packages.
• Lighting is important for discouraging crime. “Install huge floodlights all around your house,” says Martinelli. “They deter anyone.”
• Indoor and outdoor cameras are helpful but are more for gathering evidence. “If you get video of the crime, share it with the police. Hopefully, the evidence will help catch the thieves,” says Martinelli.
• “Thanks to smartphone and tablet technology, many cable companies are offering home security products that can be remotely programmed and operated,” says David Gregg, Executive Director, Consumer Product Newsgroup. “From checking on a new puppy to programming your heat and lights, it’s never been so easy to keep an eye on things at home.” Such services can even be included in your cable communications and entertainment package.
• Install peepholes and talk through the door when you don’t recognize someone.
• Remember, all locks are not made equal. Call a qualified locksmith, one associated with a well-known lock manufacturer, to take a physical security survey of your home and grounds.
• Signs are great deterrents. “Post ‘Beware of Dog’ signs, even if you don’t have a dog, and put up security signs and stickers,” says Martinelli.
Taking Extra Precautions
• Before you buy a home, check out the neighborhood. “Pull the police records for your neighborhood for the last two years,” says Martinelli.
• Martinelli also recommends documenting all your property. “Video record or photograph everything in your home, noting the serial numbers of items, and store the tape or chip in a safe-deposit box at the bank.”
• Leave a light on around the house. “It is one of the best precautions you can take,” says Martinelli. “Leave on lights, televisions and music. People will assume you are home.” Use timers to rotate which lights are lit, varying the rooms and time of night the lights are on.
Staying Safe When Moving
• Moving to a new residence can be a vulnerable time. Those packing boxes on the curb from a new flat-screen TV, sound system or small appliances are a tip-off that you may have some attractive, expensive items. Break the boxes down and take them to a recycling center.
• You’ll also feel safer if your Internet, TV and phone services are set up, along with your utilities, from day one. It’s easy to do in advance of your move at www.CableMover.com, where you can learn more about cable home security options.
