Always lock your doors and windows, even when leaving for “just a minute.” 

Never leave a house key under a doormat, in a flowerpot, or on the ledge of a door. These are the first places a burglar will look. 

All exterior doors should be solid core wood or metal and have a dead bolt with at least a 1-inch throw that extends into the frame. 

Increase the security of sliding glass doors and windows by installing additional security locks. When you’re sleeping or not at home, all windows and doors should be shut and locked.

Cut shrubbery back so it doesn't hide doors and windows. Cut back any tree limbs a burglar could use to climb to an upper-level window. 

Ask to see identification of any repairman or delivery person before opening your door. If you’re suspicious, call to verify. 

Install exterior lights on timers that illuminate your doors and windows at night. 

Use timers so lights, radios, and televisions go on and off through the house to give the appearance that someone is home. 

Install a door viewer in your front door. Never open the door to someone you don’t know! 

If a stranger asks to use your phone, offer to make the call for him/her. Have the person wait outside. 

Never use “I” on an answering machine; use “we.”

Never let a stranger know you’re home alone, whether the person is at your door or on the phone. 

Never leave outgoing checks or paid bills in your residential mailbox. Go to the post office or use the blue USPS mailboxes.

Be alert to your surroundings and the people around you. Trust your gut instinct! 

Know where you’re going and the safest route to your destination. 

Walk at a steady pace with your head up. Look confident and avoid looking down at the ground. 

Stay in well lit areas and choose routes where other people will be walking. Walk with a friend whenever possible. 

If someone is following you on foot, cross the street and head toward a busy area. If a vehicle is following you, turn around and walk in the opposite direction. 

Vary your route while jogging or biking. Exercise with a friend and avoid isolated areas whenever possible. 

If you carry a purse, hold it securely between your arm and body. 

Do not use an ATM when it is dark outside.

Don’t overburden yourself with shopping bags. 

When in a restaurant, don’t place your purse on the back of a chair. 

When shopping, do not place your purse in the child’s seat of the shopping cart. 

Direct deposit your paycheck or social security check. 

If a robber asks for your wallet/purse, do not hand it to him; toss it away from you. The robber will be more interested in your wallet/purse than you. Run in the other direction. 

Carry as little cash as possible. Remove unused credit cards and your social security card.

Keep doors locked. 

Be aware; look around you; look into your car. 

Have a mapping system (e.g. Thomas Guide) inside your car within arm’s reach. Do not rely on internet mapping systems. 

Keep your car in good working condition. Always make sure you have enough gas. 

Park in a well lit area, close to your destination, and observe your surroundings. 

Make a mental note of where you parked. 

Walk around your car, looking inside, before you get in. Once inside, immediately lock your doors. 

Always have your keys in hand prior to going outside. 

Program your cell phone with the non-emergency phone numbers of police departments in cities where you travel.