Steps to Discourage Burglars

Installing new locks and putting alarms on your doors and windows can go a long way toward keeping burglars at bay. But there are even simpler--and less-expensive--steps you can take to improve the security of your home.

Although you’ve probably read some of the safety tips that are listed below, are you really following them?

* Make sure all your porches and yards are well lit. Burglars love poorly lighted homes, so replace burned-out bulbs quickly. Also consider installing light fixtures or fashionable lawn lights in dark areas.

* Keep your shrubs trimmed. They can provide “cover” for a thief, or even serve as a make-shift ladder for the intruder to climb through a window.

“Also think about trimming your tall trees,” said Kirk MacDowell of the Los Angeles County Burglar and Fire Alarm Assn. “They can give a thief access to second-floor windows.”

* Leave one or two lights on when you’re not home to make the place look as if it’s occupied. Even better, purchase a few inexpensive electronic timers that turn various lights on and off at different times of the evening.

You might also leave a radio or television on, but remember that overworked appliances may overheat or pose other types of fire risks.

* Keep electronic equipment, antiques and other expensive items out of view from the street or yard. If nothing else, keep your curtains and drapes pulled shut whenever practical.

* Ask neighbors you trust to keep an eye on your home when you’re not there. Also ask them to pick up your mail and newspapers, or request a temporary stop of delivery.

* Form a “Neighborhood Watch” group. Members of some groups simply pledge to call the police or deputies when they spot something suspicious, while members of other groups actually patrol the neighborhood in scheduled shifts.

Most local police departments have information on starting a neighborhood watch program, and many even have special officers who’ll help you and your friends set one up.