Cincinnati Police
District 2

Crime Prevention

Basic Home Security:

The following information is provided for informational services only. It is in no way intended to be an endorsement for any type of alarm, alarm system or alarm company.

Doors and Windows

• Security starts with properly locked doors and windows, since these are the most common entry points. In Cincinnati, a little under half of all burglaries occur this way.
  
• Install dead bolts
  
• Use a door brace for low use doors and a "safe" room
  
• All locks should be changed when you move into a previously occupied house no mater who you've purchased the home from.
  
• Don't hide keys anywhere. Keys hidden outside are easily found.

Household Property

• Don't encourage a burglar by displaying valuable items where they can be seen from a window. Purses and wallets left in plain sight are prime targets.
  
• Engrave all your property with your social security number.
  
• Make a list of all your valuables, including serial numbers.

While away from Home

• Leave on a radio or TV. Many radios and TV's have timers you can set to come on at specific times.
  
• Consider putting lights on a timer if you return home after dark regularly, including photo sensitive flood lights.
  
• If you will be away for a few days:
  • Arrange for someone to cut the grass or shovel snow.
  • Ask your neighbor to park in your drive.
  • Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on house and pick up your mail and newspapers.

Install a Home Security Device

• Noise is the burglar's biggest enemy. Even when the above tips are used an intruder sensing alarm is necessary.
  
• Physical security like locks and good neighbors or dogs can be easily overcome.
  
• An alarm system will make so much noise that a burglar will not stay, and is unlikely to run off with anything. Once the alarm is sounded, the intruder knows he has been detected and will waste no time in exiting.
  
• Of course, if you are are present at the time, and are alerted,   take any precautionary actions that could save your life.
  

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Updated on November 24, 1998
Created by P.O. Eric Franz on November 24, 1998