(Information obtained from Preparing Adolescents for Young Adulthood (PAYA), Handbook for Skill Development, Massachusetts Department of Social Services – click here to visit website)

• Don't open the door to anyone you do not know without first finding out who the person is and what he/she wants.
• Install a peephole or wide-angle viewer in your door so you can see who is outside without opening the door. A short chain between the door and its frame is not a good substitute, as it can be easily broken.
• Ask to see an identification badge or card for any repairman, meter reader, policeman, etc., before you allow him or her into your home.
• Put deadbolt locks on your doors, not the spring latch type with the key hole in the knob.
• Be sure to keep your entry way, porch, and yard well lighted.
• Do not put any personal identification on your key ring.
• Give only your ignition key to the car mechanic or parking lot attendant.
• Don't give any information to "wrong number" callers. Ask what number the person was trying to reach.
• Hang up immediately on any threatening or harassing telephone calls. If the caller persists, call the police and the telephone company.
• Check references of any person calling about a survey or credit check before volunteering information. Offer to call the person back instead of responding immediately.
• If you'll be away from home for a few days or so, ask someone to pick up your mail or have the post office hold your mail until you return.
• You can also buy inexpensive timing devices to turn on and off inside lights, a radio, or a television set at different times during the evening or night.
• Burglars hope to avoid confrontations, so make your home look occupied.