Security Tips

Remember to lock all doors and windows when you leave the home.
Keep all valuable items out of sight.
Install proper lighting around your home to keep it well lit at night.
Introduce yourself to your neighbors and get to know them. Also, take the initiative to start a Neighborhood Watch group.
When you are out of town, do not lure burglars with stacks of newspapers and an overflowing mailbox. Either have a trusted neighbor pick them up daily or have the post office and news carrier hold them for you.
Set timers for lights and a television so it appears that someone is home while you are traveling.
Do not hide spare keys in obvious places such as: under doormats, in the mailbox, etc.
Install a peephole in your front door to make it possible to see who is there without having to open it.
Monitored alarm systems are effective at deterring burglars.
Do not give out your alarm code to just anyone. Only a family member or trusted friend should know the code in case of an emergency.

Smoke detectors that are monitored by a U.L. listed Central Monitoring Station are effective. Whether you are home or away, Shoff Security will always be looking out for you.
Check the batteries and test your smoke alarm monthly.
Have a planned escape route for your home with a safe meeting place.
Make sure that each room has an alternative escape route in case the first is inaccessible.
Hold practice drills regularly so the entire family is familiar with the procedure for safely exiting the house.
Do not overload electrical sockets. Unplug items when they are not in use.
Furnaces and heating systems should be cleaned on an annual basis.
Install a spark arrestor on your chimney to prevent sparks from starting a fire on your roof, nearby trees, etc. Also, cut back trees so they do not hang directly over the chimney.
In case of an actual fire situation, it is imperative that your address is easily seen by emergency vehicles.
For more information regarding fire safety, please visit the National Fire Protection Agencyâs website at www.nfpa.org.

Children should know their full name, address, and telephone number.
Teach children how to dial “911” in case of an emergency.
Make sure children always tell a parent, guardian, or another trusted adult where they are going.
Tell them to never go with or accept anything from a stranger. Also, teach them that a stranger is anyone that they or you do not know well or trust.
Let them know that it is okay to tell you or another trusted adult if they see anyone doing something they know is not right or makes them feel uncomfortable.
If your child stays home alone, make sure they know not to let anyone know that they are home alone and to keep all doors and windows closed and locked.
Prepare an emergency contact phone list. Make sure you include your work and/or cell phone number.
Prepare and practice a safe route to school.
Fingerprint your child and always have a recent photo of them.

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Shoff Security Services, Inc.