SECURI TY F O C U S
HOME SECURITY - Part II There are many ways to improve the security of your home and property. Some options, like complex alarm systems, can be relatively expensive, while others can be accomplished at no cost at all. The end goal is usually the same: giving a potential burglar reason to think twice about entering a home. Owners can start by making their homes appear to be occupied in their absence. This can be done in a variety of ways, including leaving a television or radio on in the home, using motion-activated lighting, and placing interior lights on timers. Use “smart switches” to turn your lights on and on, or find a “smart security system” that enables you to turn lights on and on remotely. Also, consider swapping favors with neighbors to keep an eye on each other’s homes when out of town. Favors might include picking up newspapers and mail. Close your windows and blinds at night. Leaving your blinds open while using Night Nights provides a free look into your home, its layout, and the habits of its occupants. And leaving windows open at night or while you are gone is an invitation for an uninvited guest to come on in. Valuables should be kept out of sight in the home. Jewelry or electronics that are visible through a window may prove to be too tempting to a potential burglar. Remember that entryways and selected areas surrounding your home should be well-lit. Consider using exterior lights with a photocell or motion-sensitive feature. The exterior of garage doors should also be lit. Locking vehicles while parked in your garage is also a good idea. Garages have always been potential burglars' favored home entry points. Lastly, remember to register with Vacation Watch at www.mcso.org, a free service provided by the Maricopa County Sheri ff ’s O ffi ce.
EMERGENCIES 911 MARICOPA COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE (602) 876-1869 CITIZENS ASSIST (snake removal; lift-assist) (480) 471-3504 NON-EMERGENCY (602) 876-1000 TONTO VERDE HOA OFFICE
(480) 471-2582 SRP ELECTRIC (602) 236-8888 EPCOR WATER (800) 383-0834 REPUBLIC SERVICES DISPOSAL (480) 627-2700 VERDECARES (480) 471-8944 DISTRICT RANGER U.S. FOREST SERVICE LAW ENFORCEMENT (480) 595-3346 SHERIFF POSSE PROGRAM RENEWAL (602) 876-1869
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