RT> From the LEO perspective, what is the best way to avoid theft and then
 RT> what is the best way to get the bad guy when he tries to get your
 RT> stuff?  Thanks, Ron -!- ~ QMPro 1.02 42-7029 ~ He does the work of 3
1) Target harden your home with good locks, appropriate lighting, and a
security system. I don't think it is which security system, rather how well
it is installed and maintained. Good lighting is the cheapest deterent, as
crooks would rather work in the dark unobserved. I like mercury vapors and
motion lights. Both have become inexpensive in recent years. Deadbolt locks
with at least a 1" throw are also a very good investment. Entry becomes very
noisy and more difficult for about $25 per door. Given a choice between
regular locks and deadbolt locks, the criminal will go down the street and
hit the house with the regular locks.
2) Cut shrubs, etc., away from doors and windows so that a crook can't work
unobserved. This measure is free.
3) Record the make, model, and serial number of all high value items.
Further, record the date, place, and amount of purchase for each item. It is
also a good idea to mark each item with an additional identifier such as your
last four of your SS# or your initials. Hide this marking if possible and
record the mark and location on your property log. Photograph your high value
items and place all of your records in a safe-deposit box.
We have tons of recovered property that is never returned to the rightful
owner because the owner is unable to identify the property. The recording
method above serves two major benefits: 1) you will be able to identify your
property and get it back; 2) property identification is necessary for
prosecution.
Hope this helps some. Reference security systems and false alarms,
maintenance and owner errors are always key issues. Walls and doors settle
or shift, and this requires realignment of magnets and contacts. Many
portions of just about any security system require adjustment, cleaning, and
maintenance. Owner errors usually involve forgotten codes or procedures and
failure to do what the system requires. In many cases, the owner sets the
alarm off or otherwise causes the false alarm. A good security system will
cost in excess of $1,000 initially, and there should be a monitoring fee of
at least $20 per month. A security system is a major investment which
requires personal effort and an ongoing maintenance expense to keep the
system working properly.
Happy Holidays
Tom Rightmer - Victims' Rights Advocate
... God is a comic playing to an audience afraid to laugh.
--- Blue Wave/DOS v2.30
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