# Reading

How to keep your home safe from thieves

If crime prevention is at the top of your to-do list, you’re not alone. By deterring burglars, you’re ensuring you don’t have to live through the sense of violation and the financial losses a theft can cause. Getting started is easier than you might think.

### 1. Home security system

Home security systems provide around-the-clock ____1____, and they connect your home with experts who can step in when something unexpected happens. Alarms can also be exceptional crime-deterrent tools, so they may make a criminal pass right by your home.

### 2. Get a dog

There’s much debate as to whether or not a dog can deter a burglar, but we’re of the mindset that they can, especially if they are loud. A barking dog is often enough to ___2__ away a potential burglar.

### 3. Have your neighbors check on things while you’re away

If you live in a tight-knit community and you know your neighbors well, they can be part of your ______3_______. Unfortunately, there are signs burglars look for to see if you’re away. When you’re asleep or out of town, for example. To help stifle this opportunity, it’s a good idea to have your neighbors keep a watchful eye while you’re gone. You should also have them grab your ____4____.

### 4. Motion lights

Motion lights will alert anyone in your home, and even neighbors, to the presence of a burglar. The last thing a burglar wants is ____5_____ so motion lights may be enough to make them change their mind and run away, especially since motion lights are often a sign that further security measures lie within or that someone is home.

### 5. Doorbell camera

A video doorbell camera is even a step beyond, as it allows you to see who is at your front door through a tiny camera ____6____ in your doorbell. You will be able to view the video from anywhere. These doorbells alert you when there is motion, suspicious activity and even scheduled items such as the dog walker arriving or your kids getting home from school.