JK.House.0508One of the best ways to find weaknesses in your home security is simply to pretend that you’re going to “break in” to your own home. And, don’t just start by going outside and looking around, either. Start at the beginning. Drive down your street, just like a would-be thief, and see what, if anything sets your home apart from others on your street.

Do you have overgrown foliage, shrubs covering your windows, darkened areas screened by vegetation? Is there a pet door? An isolated garage door or window? Do you have a privacy fence with a visible side gate? What kinds of things are outside your home? Expensive toys? Or, equally as bad, does your home appear deserted? What would make a thief choose your home over others on your block?

After you’ve done the initial cursory examination, then get out and walk around your property. Are there any glaring weaknesses? Are you cars locked, or sitting in the driveway with the keys in the ignition? Is the yard well lit at night? Are all your doors locked, especially those that are more isolated from the living areas of your home? Are there any windows that are open, unlocked, or isolated from the main living areas? Are there any potential “tools” that are available for use, such as a ladder leaned against the side of the house or garage, a shovel, rake, or other such implements stored outside or in an unlocked shed? If you have a privacy fence, is the gate that leads into your back yard locked?

If you were to look in your windows, what would you see? A nice sized flat screen television? A laptop sitting by a window? Can you see your jewelry box if you look in the bedroom window? Maybe you have a gun cabinet with expensive firearms on display in a family room? An ipod and game console in your child’s room? Remember, a thief is looking for things that are easily stolen, and easily sold for cash.

Pay careful attention to everything that you see, note any potential weaknesses, and start planning your defenses!