Home is a place you should feel safe and secure. Sometimes, we take it for granted and unfortunately, we do need to remain vigilant about things we do that could compromise our safety. Here are a few tips to consider:

*Everyone loves an inviting home including burglars.

*Make sure it looks occupied and is difficult to break in.

*Always lock outside doors and windows even if you’re only gone for a brief time.

*Lock gates and fences.

*Leave lights on when you leave; consider timers to automatically control the lights.

*Keep your garage door closed even when you’re home; don’t tempt thieves with what you have in your garage.

*Suspend your mail and newspaper delivery when you’re out of town or get a neighbor to pick it up for you.

Posting that you’re out of town or away from home on social networks is like advertising your home is unprotected. Equally dangerous could be allowing certain social network sites to track your location. Don’t leave keys under doormats, in flowerpots or the plastic rocks; thieves know about those hiding places and even more than you can think. Trim the shrubs from around your home; don’t give criminals a place to hide. Use exterior motion detectors and yard lighting. Have an alarm system and use it when you leave home and go to bed. Put 3 ½” deck screws in door plates and door hinges. Have good deadbolts on all exterior doors. Exterior doors should be solid core.

If you or someone you know is looking to buy, sell or rent a home, please call The DeHanas Team at 301-870-1717.