Did you know that every day in this country, more than 16,000 homes and apartments are broken into and ransacked by thieves? That makes burglary a very big business. Break-ins cost Americans about $3 billion every year.

The good news is that 9 out of 10 burglaries could be prevented with some basic precautions. 

Begin with a little common sense:

• Make it harder for thieves to gain entrance to your home. You can start by making doors more secure.
• Standard, spring-catch locks can be opened easily by a crook with a credit card.
• A single-cylinder deadbolt lock is enough to discourage many thieves. And you might be able to lower your insurance premiums in the bargain.

Burglars like unprotected windows, too.

• Key-locks on windows add an extra measure of security;
• so do steel or wooden rods in the channels of sliding-glass doors.
• A dark house is an invitation to a thief—install timers on your home's lighting systems, indoors and out.
• And don't provide cover, camouflage or encouragement for the burglar who's casing your neighborhood—prune the shrubbery around doors and windows,
• and keep ladders and tools locked up.

One of the most satisfying ways to foil burglars is to organize a neighborhood blockwatch. Keeping an eye on each other's homes not only prevents crime, it promotes a sense of community. Let your neighbors know when you leave town (as long as you know them personally), and ask them to do the same. Most police and sheriff's departments will gladly help you start a neighborhood watch program.

And one more thing:

• Don't "hide" spare keys under doormats or flower pots or in the mailbox. And forget about ordering one of those fake rocks used for hiding keys...burglars have seen those catalogs, too!

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Please Note: The information contained in this Web site is provided solely as a source of general  information and resource.  It is a not a statement of contract and coverage may not apply in all areas or circumstances.  For a complete description of coverages, always read the insurance policy, including all endorsements.