Security Tips

Intrusion

  • 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.

Fire

  • 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 Agency’s website at www.nfpa.org.

Children

  • 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.