At Home

  1. Always leave your headlights on when arriving home after dark until you have unlocked the garage door.
  2. When arriving home by private auto or taxi, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside.
  3. Have the door key in your hand so you can open the door immediately when you return home.
  4. If you live alone, list only your first initial and last name on the mailbox, or in the telephone directory.
  5. When moving into a new apartment or residence, ALWAYS have the locks re-keyed, or changed.
  6. Know who is at your door before opening it.
  7. Wide angle door viewers (180 degrees or 190 degrees) enable you to identify the visitor. You can see the person, that person can't see you.
  8. Never rely on chain locks. They are a privacy lock, but not a security lock.
  9. Never dress in front of windows, always close your drapes.
  10. Never let anyone into your home without proper identification.
  11. Don't be afraid to ask for identification.
  12. Never let strangers into your home to use the telephone. Make the call for them while they wait outside.
  13. Always leave outside lights on after dark, or use motion lights.
  14. If you receive a wrong number phone call, don't give out your name or phone number.
  15. If you receive an obscene phone call, hang up and call police.
  16. In an apartment building, NEVER be alone in the laundry room.
  17. If you suspect that someone is in your house, do not go in. Go to a neighbor and call the police.
  18. If you see or hear anything suspicious, call the police.