Learn to protect your home before going away for the holidays.

Get the Right Eyes

It's absolutely necessary to get a wide-angle door viewer. Install it the same way you do a normal door viewer, except now you can see everything before opening your door.

Use the Right Box

Using a security mailbox will keep thieves out of your mail. The only difference is you'll need a key once the mail is deposited inside. Avoiding identity theft is definitely worth the few extra seconds of turning a key.

Install a Security Safe

A safe is a great spot to keep expensive jewelry and valuable papers. Just don't forget to fasten it to the wall or floor.

Disguise Your Safe

Hide the safe in the corner of a closet or somewhere inconspicuous. Another good thing to do is mount it in the wall and cover with a picture. Or, chip out a hole in your concrete and pour new concrete around it.

Add Inexpensive Alarms

Wireless window alarms are effective

Burglars hate noises, so even a small alarm usually sends them running. Make these your second line of defense.

Doors Have a Piercing Shriek

If you install a door alarm, the burglar will leave faster than he got in. It's never worth waiting to see if your alarm is connected to a security system that calls the police.

Add Motion Detection

Motion Detection is a proven crime deterrent, and having it connected to a solar panel will allow it to run when power is down.

Secure Patio Doors

An auxiliary foot lock fastens along the bottom of the door and has a bolt that fits into a grommet in the door track to hold it secure. It won't matter if the thief picks the handle lock.