NCJ Number
93231
Date Published
1981
Length
120 pages
Annotation
Suggestions to improve residential security in both single family homes and apartments focus on avoiding burglary incidents and making them difficult at the perimeter, with attention to doors, windows, locks, lighting, and alarm systems.
Abstract
The book begins with aperimeter security test to diagnose a home's vulnerability to crime. A discussion of entrance security considers peepholes, intercoms, door types, entry methods commonly used by burglars, locks, and garage security. A partial list of locks meeting minimum security standards is provided. Ways to properly secure windows through locks, alarms, metal grilles, and bars are described. The chapter on external securtiy covers gates and fences, landscaping, dogs, and outer buildings such as tool sheds, while a subsequent section focuses on the deterrent value of exterior lighting and timing systems. Types of burglar alarms are explained, as are their costs and insurance benefits. Alarms meeting minimum security standards are listed. The book also discusses security problems unique to apartments, property protection through engraved identification numbers, safes, and photo records, and ways to protect a house when no one is at home. A review of different types of homeowners' insurance policies includes a checklist to evaluate current insurance. Finally, the book offers advice on recognizing potentially dangerous situations and handling them, such as robbery, street crime, being followed, rape, phone calls, and child molestation. The appendixes contain a sample security card for emergency information, additional checklists, and sample personal property record forms. An index is supplied.