Residential Security

Residential security is a critical component of any personal security program. The following guidelines should be used in reviewing your residential security. 

• All entrances, including service doors and gates, should have quality locks–preferably deadbolt.
• Don’t leave keys “hidden” outside the home. Leave an extra key with a trusted neighbor or colleague. 
• Keep doors locked even when you or family members are at home.
  
• Have window locks installed on all windows. Use them.
  
• Lock louvered windows–especially on the ground floor.
  
• Have locks installed on your fuse boxes and external power sources.
  
• If you have window grilles and bars, review fire safety. Don’t block bedroom windows with permanent grilles if the windows may be used for emergency egress.
  
• If you have burglar or intrusion alarms, check and use them.
  
• Keep at least one fire extinguisher on each floor, and be sure to keep one in the kitchen. Show family members and household help how to use them.
  
• Periodically check smoke detectors and replace batteries when necessary.
  
• Keep flashlights in several areas in the house. Check the batteries often, especially if you have children in your home. (They love to play with flashlights!)
  
• A family dog can be a deterrent to criminals. But remember, even the best watch-dog can be controlled by food or poison. Do not install separate “doggy doors” or entrances. They also can admit small intruders.
  
• Know your neighbors. Develop a rapport with them and offer to keep an eye on each other’s homes, especially during trips.
  
• If you observe any unusual activity, report it immediately.
  
• Establish safe family living patterns. If you understand the importance of your contribution to the family’s overall security, the entire household will be safer.
  
• While at home, you and your family should rehearse safety drills and be aware of procedures to escape danger and get help.
  
• Educate family members and domestic help in the proper way to answer the telephone at home.
  
• Vary daily routines; avoid predictable patterns.
  
• Know where all family members are at all times.
  
• Use these same guidelines while on leave or in travel status.

Establishing a Safehaven

Follow three basic steps in setting up a safe-haven in your home:

• Designate an internal room;
  
• Install a two-way communications system or telephone; and
  
• Furnish the safehaven with an emergency kit.

It is highly unlikely you would spend more than a few hours in a safehaven; however, the supplies listed below are suggested for your maximum safety. Your security officer can tell you more about how to select and secure your safehaven.

The following is a checklist of possible safehaven supplies.

• Fire extinguisher
• Fresh water
• 5-day supply of food
• Candles, matches, flashlight
• Extra batteries
• Bedding
• Toilet facilities
• Sterno stove, fuel
• Shortwave or other radio
• Medical/first aid kit
• Other items for your comfort and leisure–a change of clothing, books, games

Source: State.gov