The Holidays have now passed, the gifts are open and the trash is out by the street. This is the time of year where we need to be precautious about throwing out the trash because it’s not just the raccoons digging through your trash; it’s the prowlers looking to see what great gifts your family received this holiday season.

Don’t Showboat

So you got a new TV! After purchasing a new flat screen TV or other pricey electronics, don’t leave the box out beside the trash can or recycling bin. That tells people you have something brand spanking new that could fetch decent dollars on the street. It may also leave them wondering what other goodies are inside your home. Break down the boxes the best you can and hide them in contractor bags, that way it’s harder for burglars to see what you have.

Trick them into thinking your home

There is a greater chance that these vagrants will not attempt to break in if they think someone is home. Don’t forget more break- ins happen during the day when many people are at work. Create an illusion that someone’s still there by leaving on a light or music. Of course, if the lights are going to be left on it might be a good idea to install fluorescent bulbs that last longer and are better for the environment.

Lock it Up

Did you know that more than 40 percent of break-ins happen without the use of force, meaning a lot of people forget to lock the doors and windows… Oops! You can easily break into some older sliding doors by popping them off of their frame, even when locked. It’s harder to do with newer ones and you should take extra precautions to secure them since they can be an inviting entry for intruders. If they try picking the lock on your sliding door a great way to deter them from getting in is by placing a block of wood or a rod behind the door to prevent it from sliding back and opening.

Remember a Home Security system will help keep the burglars away and give you a discount on your insurance policy. Don’t forget to keep a detailed list of your personal property; photos and receipts are helpful in recovering your items just in case you suffer a theft loss.