Put locks on all doors and windows and USE them all the time.

Exterior doors should be metal or solid 1-3/4" hardwood.

Always re-key or replace all locks when first moving in, even if it's newly constructed.

Secure sliding glass doors with commercially available bars or locks, or place a wooden dowel or broomstick in the door track.

Secure window air conditioners to prevent removal from outside.

Don't hide a key outside, if you can find it, so can someone else.  Instead leave an extra key with a trusted friend or relative.

Determine who is at the door BEFORE you open it. Use a peep hole, or speak to the person through a closed and locked door.  Door chains can be broken.

NEVER open door to strangers.  If there is an "emergency", offer to make the call for  them.  Do not let them in your house.

Teach children NEVER to answer the door, but to come and get you if they hear someone at the door.  Install door latches above their reach to be sure.

Exterior Lighting:  All possible entrances should be well lighted.

Install outdoor lighting with motion detectors and/or light sensors.

Trim any bushes or trees that hide doors or windows.

Keep curtains and window shades closed at night.

Use automatic timers for lights, radios, and anything that makes your home look occupied.

Keep ladders. tools, toys, and recreational equipment inside when you're not using them.

Be sure all newspapers, mail, and packages are picked up daily.  Especially check entrances you rarely use.

Do Not put your name on the mail box.

Landscape with plants that discourage easy access to your windows, such as thorny type plants.

Chinese Horned Holly       

Buford Holly                        

Pyracantha                         

Barberry                              

Florabunda Type Roses   

Spanish Dagger                

Thorney Cactus                 

Prickly Pear                       

Have Unlisted telephone number, or just initials in directory without an address listed.

Never give credit card, bank account numbers, or social security number over the telephone, unless you initiate the call, and NEVER give this type of information over a cordless or cell phone.  They can easily be monitored.

A 1998 Law for tele-marketers prohibits them from making "Anonymous" sales calls.

Since September 1998, telephone solicitors that use live callers, or automatic dial announcing, are now required to provide on all Caller ID their company's name and a working call-back telephone number.  Companies that do not provide this information can be fined $1,000 a day.  If a telemarketer calls you without providing the company's name and a working incoming call-back number on your Caller ID, unit, try to get enough information about the company to file a complaint with the Public Utility Commission, Office of Consumer Protection, 1-888-782-8477.

Basic Rule about telemarketing and telephone solicitors is "If it sounds too good to be true, it is too good to be true".

Ask for a financial report if the caller requests a donation for charity.  reputable charities will always send this information if you ask.

Get to know your neighbors.  Watch out for each other.

Don't be afraid to report any suspicious activity or persons in your neighborhood.  Get a description of vehicle, person and report that information to your local law enforcement.

 Knowing your neighbors is the best defense against crime.  Be familiar with each others comings and goings, family make-up, vehicles they drive, work hours, planned vacations or visitors, and scheduled deliveries or repairs.

 Inventory all your possessions by making a list, taking photographs, and videotaping.

Place inventory lists, photos, and videos in safe deposit box at your bank.

Record all serial numbers on inventory, engrave your Texas Drivers License on all possible items.  DO NOT use Social Security Numbers.

Make a copy of EVERYTHING in your wallet, and update that copy every time something is added or deleted.

Do not keep information in your vehicle listing your home address, or home telephone number.  Do not leave keys in your vehicle.