These days, it doesn't pay to be too trusting when people come to your door, phone
you, or even ask for directions in the street. It's not a great way to live, but it's the
way it's going, unfortunately.
SECURITY TIPS
Keep your wiremesh screen door (if you have one) locked when you respond to
a ring on the bell. Don't open it if you don't know the caller.
If you don't have a screen door, install a safety chain on your main door, and
remember to keep the chain on until you know who is there.
If you answer the phone to someone, never let them know that you are alone
in the house. They could be close by just looking for a victim.
If you have children, NEVER leave them alone in the house. It only takes a very
few minutes for someone to enter, or for a child to leave.
Have locks on your windows, and never leave windows open when the house
is empty.
HOLIDAY TIME
When you go on holiday, arrange for the Post Office to hold your mail, or have
a trusted friend or neighbour collect it for you.
Stop your paper delivery.
Have someone look after your pets, or place them in a boarding home, if you
can't take them with you. Lonely or crying pets can give away the fact that a
home is empty.
There are sure to be many other tips not listed here, so if you have any that may
help others, please post them. Let's all be safe in our own homes.