It doesn’t have to be National Security Month for you take easy steps to secure your home. Securing your home doesn’t have to be expensive or time consuming. Doing a little each day can help boost your home security Secure Score. Whether you’re leasing/renting or own your home, there are simple ways you can secure your home at no cost: +3 points – keep shoes by your front and back doors Leaving a pair of your old shoes at the front and back doors helps give the impression that someone is home. +5 points – lock your gates Locking your gates is a simple and effective way to keep unwanted intruders out. When your gates are locked, it’s much harder for them to get in quietly – forcing them to jump your fence could cause noise, draw attention, or set off sensor lights. +6 points – lock your garden shed and garage Your shed and garage are full of valuable tools and equipment, just like the things inside your home. To live safer and protect these outdoor assets, simply lock up your shed and garage. It’s an easy step that prevents theft and stops tools like screwdrivers and crowbars from being used to break into your house. Take action today to live safer and secure your belongings! +5 points – move your trash cans to a secure location, not against your house or a fence It only takes two minutes to move and your bins away from the house or a fence. Intruders often climb onto bins for easy access to windows or to climb over fences. +5 points – keep your spare key in a secure location Under doormats, on adjacent window ledges, door frames, fake rocks or in mailboxes are some common places intruders will look for spare keys. So always keep a spare in a safe and secure place, in a lockbox, or with a trusted neighbor. +6 points – join your local National Neighborhood Watch group Your local Neighborhood Watch group will have valuable tips on home security and community safety, while also providing a great opportunity to connect with neighbors and stay informed about safety initiatives in your area. Find a Neighborhood Watch group here. + 5 points – put your lights on a timer Timers help give the impression that someone is home and actively moving around, making your home a far less inviting target for intruders. +5 points – have your mail collected when on vacation Having a trusted neighbor, friend or family member collect your mail while you’re away or on vacation is an easy way to earn 5 points. Intruders are typically opportunistic, and an overflowing mailbox is a clear sign of an empty house. +6 points – install strong security screens, like Crimsafe Learn other ways to live safer in your home Visit the Secure Score website, a free online resource, to see how you can easily boost your home’s security. Find your local Crimsafe supplier.