Things to Keep in Mind

Recently there have been alleged or attempted break-ins to homes within our Barrington Heights Homeowners Association. The purpose of this letter is to alert you of this information.  As homeowners, it is our job to protect our homes and belongings, and most importantly our families.

Here are some reminders to help safeguard your home:

• Lock and close doggie doors as people can break in through open doggie doors.
• Be aware of door to door salesmen during the holiday season.
• Arrange to have your UPS, FedEx or USPS packages picked up right away or safely hidden out of sight.
  
• Make sure door frames are in good condition and won’t easily give way under pressure.
• Use only good quality locks.
• Special locks are available for patio-style doors
• Fit window locks to all accessible windows.  More than half of all burglaries are committed through accessible windows.
• If you have installed window locks, USE THEM      
• Don’t leave windows open when you are not at home
• Prevent easy observation of the interior of your house by fitting blinds or curtains
• Don’t leave spare keys in any of the obvious places like under the mat
• Cancel newspapers and have a neighbor collect any materials left at your home if you will be away
• Lock away anything that would help a burglar gain access to your home such as ladders or tools
• Use a timer for lights to make sure your house looks occupied
• Don’t leave visible items in your car and don’t leave your vehicle unlocked
• Keep bushes and greenery trimmed so that they don’t create a hiding place for unwanted guests
• Consider an alarm system and if you have one or get one, USE IT

If you see someone suspicious, call 911 immediately to report them.  Don’t assume someone else will make that call.  It is better if there are numerous calls rather than none at all.