Client Services

Security Tips*

When moving into a new home, be sure to have locks re-keyed or replaced. Keep duplicate keys to a minimum.
Security alarm systems should be used in addition to, not in place of, other security measures.
House numbers should be in a well-lit area and easily visible to neighbours and emergency response units.
Exterior doors should be solid core. Hinges should be on the inside. Seal gaps between the door and frame in order to prevent a jimmy bar from being used.
Install deadbolt locks on all exterior doors and other entrances into the house from the garage or basement.
Install wide-angle viewers for exterior doors.
While proper locks on sliding glass doors are recommended, inserting a fitted piece of wood or metal in the door's lower track improves security.
Secure basement and ground level windows, as well as other possible points of entry, such as pet doors and window-mounted air conditioners.
Check references of people you employ to work in and around your home.
List only surname and initials in the telephone book.
Have adequate insurance coverage on your home and contents.

Leave doors and windows locked whenever possible.
Use curtains on basement and garage windows to prevent others from shopping for goods.
Store credit cards, identification and other valuables in a safe place, and use a safety deposit box for seldom used valuables (e.g., jewellery).
Avoid leaving house and car keys available to a thief or intruder.
Do not leave purses or valuables in view of persons at your door.
Insist on seeing identification from sales and service people.
Consider purchasing a home security system.

Keep tools, ladders and garbage pails locked away.
Keep bicycles, barbecues and lawn equipment securely stored.
Have adequate exterior lighting.
Trim trees and shrubs that could easily hide intruders.
Don't leave notes on your door.
Don't leave spare keys hidden outside - they can be found.
Don't use a nameplate outside of your house with your full name. A criminal can use this information to look up your number in the phone book and call to see if you are home.

Inform trusted neighbours or relatives of your vacation plans and where you can be reached. Leave a key with them so they can check your house.
Have a neighbour park a car in your driveway, and pick up your mail, newspapers and flyers.
Ask a neighbour to put one of their garbage bags in front of your house on collection day.
Don't order merchandise for delivery while you are away, and cancel regular deliveries.
Don't talk about your vacation plans with strangers or service people.
Use your work address on your luggage tags so potential criminals won't know where your empty house is.
Secure or remove valuables and firearms from your home.
Leave your house with a lived-in look. Use automatic timers to turn on lights and radios.
Have your lawn cut or snow removed while you are away.
If you come home and see a door ajar or a window broken, call the police immediately. NEVER enter the dwelling. If it looks suspicious - don't hesitate - call police.

* Courtesy of Ottawa Police Service.