We see articles in the newspaper every day and hear it on the news - home burglaries are on the rise. Though we cannot be completely exempt from being a victim of this crime, we can all take precautions. Many insurance agents and police officers have shared these tips with me.

Install Lights and a Security System

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  Check the entire perimeter of your home to ensure all of your property is illuminated. Consider installing motion-sensor lighting.
  
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  Security cameras can deter as well as help catch the intruder (and many are wireless that can be self-installed very easily).
  
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  Install an alarm system that will contact the police (there are wireless and easy-to-install models for the do-it-yourselfer).
  
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  Consider a professional alarm monitoring service.
  

Be proactive

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  Use a timer to turn the lights (inside and outside) on at dusk and off at dawn.
  
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  Keep doors and windows locked even when you are home.
  
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  Ensure that you have deadbolt locks on exterior doors..
  
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  Use secondary blocking devices on sliding glass doors.
  
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  To lessen potential hiding places, trim shrubs and trees that are close to the house.
  
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  When on vacation, have a trusted neighbor bring in your mail, and even park their car in your driveway periodically.
  
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  When away for an extended period of time, have someone mow your lawn, shovel your snow, etc., to make it appear that you are not away.
  
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  Do not post on any social media sites that you are on vacation; share your experience and your photos after you've returned home.
  

In addition to these steps of prevention, you will also want to prepare for a burglary or any other loss. Complete a home inventory. This information is extremely helpful when you need to file an insurance claim and complete a police report. You'll be able to provide the necessary information (manufacturer, model number and serial numbers) that is included in the written list. The photos will be helpful also, to prove ownership and to give the police a visual of the items they will be searching for. An inventory will lessen the time, stress, emotional turmoil and potential financial loss.