Don't Invite Burglars In

*** New Sponsor Contributor***

By Jake Stewart, State Farm Agent

Imagine coming home to find that someone has broken into your home and stolen valuable items and ransacked your personal possessions. The feeling of devastation can be overwhelming for victims of burglary . It’s a crime we are all vulnerable to, whether we live in a city or rural area, have a high or low income, live in a house or in an apartment or condominium. According to the FBI, a burglary happens every 15 seconds in the United States . It’s a serious crime. The problem is many of us, through our own carelessness, make it easier for burglars to carry out their work. A few simple steps can make your home a harder target for burglars.

· Lock all outside doors before you leave or go to bed.

· Lock all windows.

· Leave a few lights on when you are not home.

· Keep all garage doors closed and locked.

· Don’t allow daily deliveries, like newspapers and mail, to pile up when you’re out of town. Ask a friend or neighbor to pick them up for you or arrange to have deliveries stopped until you return.

· When you’re on vacation, arrange to have someone take care of your yard.

Other things to consider:

· Contact a locksmith for advice on pick-resistant locks for your doors, sliding glass doors and windows.

· Don’t leave keys under flower pots, doormats or other “secret” hiding places – burglars know them all.

· Keep a detailed inventory of all your personal possessions. Include a description of the item, date of purchase, original value and any serial numbers. A videotape can be helpful.

Be a good neighbor. If you notice anything suspicious in your neighborhood, contact the police immediately.

NOTE: Jake Stewart is a local State Farm agent here in Rancho Cordova. If this article has prompted any questions regarding insurance or financial services, feel free to contact him at 916-852-8070. He is happy to be a resource for Cordova Towne residents. Cordova Towne sponsors will periodically post on our neighborhood blog with relevant community-oriented information to help us further our vision. This post was put online by Ryan.