How to Protect Your Home From Burglars
How safe is your home? Our expert finds gaps in one woman's defenses.
Dec. 3, 2008 — -- Watch "Good Morning America" Thursday as a security expert tests one woman's home and finds it's not as safe as she thought it was.
Home Burglary Prevention
Use your locks. Even the best locks can't protect you if you don't use them.
Do some yard work. Trim hedges and bushes so thieves can't hide out.
Know your neighbors. Neighbors who look out for each other are among the best, and least expensive, defenses against crime.
Secure your spare. Leave your spare key with a trusted neighbor. Never hide it on the property. Burglars have more experience looking for keys than you do hiding them.
Guard your garage. If you park your car outside of your garage, never leave the garage door opener in the car.
Let there be light. Make sure all outside entrances -- front, back and side -- have good lighting so burglars can't easily hide.
Invest in an alarm. An alarm system controls access points to your home and lets you know if someone has invaded your space.