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Your Home Design

Whether you are searching for a new home or have been living in the same house for many years, there are several things that you should know about your residence's design and how it affects your security.

Two-story, single-family homes are usually not a burglar's first choice. If the master bedroom (usually the first stop) is on the second floor, he could be trapped. But a two-story home does not guarantee your security.

The first floor is the typical entry point, and you need reliable locks on all windows and doors. If you have a two-story home or live on a higher floor of an apartment or condominium building, easily climbed tree limbs or an unlocked fire escape could provide easy access for a burglar.

Single-family homes in the middle of a block are much more likely to be burglarized than corner homes. Thieves tend to bypass corner houses because they are highly visible, making it more likely that they'll be spotted. So, if you live in the middle of a block, invest in outdoor lighting that increases your home's visibility and decreases a burglar's chances of success.

Most townhouses have common features, such as sliding glass doors and small, discreetly fenced back yards, which make them easier to burglarize. In an attempt to provide privacy for each unit, their design also provides privacy for a thief. If you live in a townhouse, reinforce your sliding glass doors and consider using a motion-sensitive light in order to protect the vulnerable rear area of your residence.

Cul-de-sacs require special precautions as well. Police drive through these neighborhoods less frequently than others, and cul-de-sacs often have wooded areas nearby, which create an ideal hiding place for an escaping thief. Homeowners on these types of blocks should ask their local police department for more frequent police patrols.

If you live in an apartment building, the most important security precaution is to change your locks immediately after you move in. Only authorized persons, such as the superintendant or a maintenance person, should have access to your keys.

No matter where you live, ground floor windows need secure locks. Also make sure that balcony, patio and fire exits are equipped with sturdy doors and secure locks.