Summerfield Residents Association, Inc.

     Thieves look for what police term “targets of opportunity”.  There are many things you can do to avoid becoming a victim, especially if you are going to be away from your home for an extended period.

• Ask your local law enforcement agency to check your house periodically if they offer this service in your community.

• Double-check the areas which are often overlooked such as second floor or basement windows.

• Make sure exterior areas do not give your absence away.  Arrange to have mail and deliveries either stopped or picked up by a neighbor.

• Leave a car in the driveway.  Have outside lights turned off and on with a home timer.  Arrange to have the lawn cut and the bushes trimmed.

• Have several timers attached to lights in various locations throughout the house.  One timer can be programmed to turn one light on and off several times during the evening.  Several timers performing the same function can give a very “lived in” look to a house.

• This same practice with home timers can be utilized with TVs and radios.  It gives an added sound element to the “lived in” look.

• Ask your neighbors to check your home regularly, and leave a number with them where you can be reached.  Also ask neighbors to also use your garbage cans.  Spotters for burglars sometimes work for trash collectors.  Ask neighbors to also pick up handbills and circulars.

• While it is advisable to notify police and a neighbor of your planned absence, don’t tell everyone about your plans.  Don’t leave notes on your door for neighbors or couriers.

• If, upon returning from your trip you spot evidence of a break-in, do not enter the house; the burglar may still be inside.  Call 911 at once!

• Make a list of personal items by serial number and date purchased.  Keep the list in a safe place and not in your home.  In addition, mark valuables with an engraver.

• Doors and windows should be equipped with deadbolt locks.