South Bend Police Department

DOORS:

1. All exterior entry doors should be made of solid metal or wood.


2. Check to make sure that door hinges are protected from removal from the outside.


3. Check the door frames to see if it’s strong enough and tight enough to preventing forcing it open. (Example: Body force, kicking it in.)


4. Inspect all exterior door locks to see if they are working properly.


5. The door strike plate screws should be 3 ½” or 4” long and screwed into the door frame for extra security.

1. Check to make sure all of your windows have locks in good working order. Add window pins to help secure the window from being lifted passed a desired level.


2. Your storm windows should lock from the inside.


3. Check to make sure your windows are not blocked by outside landscape. This makes it easier for burglars to hide.

GARAGE:

1. Close your garage door(s) whether you are home or away.


2. While working in the backyard don’t leave the overhead door open in the front.


3. Cover your garage windows so a burglar cannot see what’s inside.

LIGHTING:

1. All exterior entrances should be lighted with at least a 40watt light.


2. Check all the exterior lights and replace those that are out before the weather gets bad.


3. Remove dirt and debris from all light fixtures to maximize the lighting.


4. Try exterior dusk to dawn light fixture.


5. Use interior light timers on some of your interior lamps and radio/T.V. This will help light the inside of your house if you get home late and it gives the impression that someone is home.

ALARM SYSTEMS:

1. Alarm systems vary from company to company. Check with your alarm company to make sure you are operating the system correctly. If there is any type of malfunction contact your alarm company for repairs right away.


2. Always set your alarm when you leave the house.


3. If your have a alarm company yard sign make sure it is visible in your front yard.


4. Advise the alarm company to call the Police Dept. first, (then, the owner, a relative or trusted neighbor) if your alarm goes off. This will help speed up response time to the burglar alarm.

If you would like additional information on securing your home or if you would like an officer to conduct a FREE security survey of your home contact the South Bend Police Dept. Crime Prevention Unit at (574) 235-9037.

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