5 low-cost ways to secure your home

Crime, whether random or targeted, petty or professional, is unnerving. Lots of attention has been devoted to a recent spate of high-profile crimes in metro Atlanta. We rely on public safety officials to protect us and our property. Still, there are steps we can take to look out for ourselves, and they don’t have to be expensive. Perhaps you cannot afford a monthly fee for a security alarm.

Consider these options

1. Fluorescent lights: Energy Star Compact Fluorescent light bulbs are a good alternative for outdoor lighting. Because of their long-life, you can count on these bulbs lasting about 10 times longer than regular bulbs. Plus, the bulbs use about 75 percent less energy than an incandescent bulb. That combination makes it a good choice for keeping the outside of your home well lit.

2. Car Alarm: Perhaps you’ve been awakened in the middle of the night by someone’s car alarm blaring through an otherwise silent night. It makes sense that the loud noise would spook a potential burglar as well. Rather than leaving your keys in another room, bring them to your bedroom with you. In the unfortunate event that your home is burglarized while you’re inside, press the alarm.

3. Neighborhood Watch: In July 2008, the National Crime Prevention Council commissioned a survey of 1,400 parents of grade school children. Of those, only 64 percent of parents in urban neighborhoods stated they knew their neighbors. The number was higher — 80 percent — in suburban and rural areas, but there is room for improvement in both areas. It might also help reduce neighborhood crime. Planning and participating in community events and building positive relationships with your neighbors can heighten crime prevention efforts.

4. Contact local police: When was the last time you saw a police officer patrolling your street? If you have to think about it much, it has probably been too long. Call your local precinct to request beefed up patrol in your area. A regular police presence during the day and night is a crime deterrent.

Barking dogs can make burglars think twice.

5. Call him Fido: Ok, dogs aren’t cheap. They are a lot more fun than an alarm system, though. The sound of a barking dog isn’t very inviting to potential burglars. If bringing a pet into your home is too big a step, you could also buy a ‘Beware of Dog’ sign and post in a highly visible location in your window. It might make someone think twice.