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Security
A residential burglary is committed every 15 seconds. To reduce the probability of your home being burglarized, consider the following precautions.
Making Your Home Burglar Resistant
-High fences and shrubbery can add to your privacy, but privacy is a burglar's asset. Consider trading a little extra privacy for a bit of added security.
-Exterior and interior lighting are important security measures. Use a timer or photo-electric cell to automatically turn on lights.
-Alarm systems should include a fail-safe battery backup, fire-sensing capability, indicators to tell if the system is working, and a loud horn installed in a place difficult to reach to silence the device. Batteries should be checked on a regular schedule. If you have an alarm system, post signs to that effect.
-Locking devices and other physical barriers help provide protection. Deadbolt locks are advisable. Take into account protection of sky lights and roof accesses.
There are a number of security systems for the serious collector. Work with your insurance broker and security consultant to develop a loss prevention plan. If you have been a victim of art theft, consider registering the theft with the Art Loss Register; further information is available at www.artloss.com.
Keeping Your Home Secure
-Avoid giving information to unidentified telephone callers, or announcing your personal plans in public notices (such as giving your address when advertising items for sale).
-Don't carry keys on a key ring bearing your address or leave house keys with your car in a commercial parking lot.
-When on vacation: leave blinds in usual position; have mail picked up, held or forwarded; lower the sound of your telephone; arrange to have your lawn mowed or walk shoveled; alert dependable neighbors.
(Reference: Marsh and McClellan Insurance Company)