Key Principles To Protect Your Home

1. Natural Surveillance
   This design philosophy is directed principally at keeping trespassers easily observable.
   
   - Sidewalks and all areas of the yard should be well lit.
   - Doorways and entrance ways well lit.
   - The driveway should be visible from either the front or 
      back door and at least one window.
   - Window curtains closed shut when not at home and keep
      valuables out of sight.
   - Adequately maintained landscaping (trees and bushes trimmed). 
   - Front door should be at least somewhat visible from the roadway.
   - Windows on all sides of the house together should provide full
      visibility of the property.
   
   
2. Natural Access Control
   This design philosophy is directed principally at decreasing crime opportunity by denying access to target areas and conceiving in the offenders mind, a perception of risk.
   Walkways, pathways and landscaping that direct visitors to the proper entrance and away from areas in which you do not want visitors.
   
   
3. Territorial Reinforcement
   This design philosophy is directed principally at physical design where users develop a sense of territorial control. At the same time, the potential offender who perceives this control, is discouraged to enter.
   
   Appropriate signs.....Alarm Protected, All Property Marked For Identification, Beware Of Dog.
   
   Highly visible street address numbers in front and back alley (contrasting colors, at least 3 inches high).
   
   Front porches and landings establish a definable area between the street and the home.
   
   Property lines and private areas should be clarified with fences, plants, shrubs. This makes it clear what is your property.