Interior Security Ideas

Safes and Security Closets

Things of value that you must keep in the house, as well as things that should not be allowed to fall into the wrong hands (such as firearms), can be kept in a security closet. This is a closet that has a steel or solid wood door and gives the same attention to security that you give the entrance to your home. These may also be protected separately as part of a home security system. There are also commercially built safes available at all prices, but remember it is best for them to be bolted securely to the wall or floor.

Safety Deposit Boxes

No matter how secure your home is, it is no place for your most important papers and valuables. A safe deposit box costs only a few dollars a year and affords more protection than you could buy at home without spending many thousands of dollars. The lock box is the place to store records of the serial numbers of valuables, with photos and descriptions of items that have no serial numbers.

Engraving and Recording Possessions

When taking photos of your valuables, it is a good idea to have your driver's license in the photo as evidence of ownership. Wherever possible, it is a good practice to engrave your driver's license number (preceded by the two letter abbreviation of the state), not a good idea if it is your social security number.  You can also use any other number you want, just as long as you can remember it. The best way to engrave is with one of the small electric engravers that sell for between $15 and $20, or a dremal type tool.

When you purchase a new item, write the serial number down.  Go back and write the serial number down on all items of value and/or importance, especially firearms.  Keep the numbers in a safe place, either a safe or safety deposit box is preferred.

Mail and Personal Information

Go to the store and purchase a shredder, a dual cross cut one is preferred.  It is recommended to shred any and all items with your personal information on it (ie. social security number, account numbers, etc.) This will help prevent identity theft.

Setting Up a Neighborhood Watch

Setting up a good Neighborhood Watch program is the best investment you can make in keeping your local neighborhood safe. The roots of the program lie in what we think of as old-fashioned ideas of neighborhood responsibility, unity and preparedness. Contact the police department for more information.

JasCo Metropolitan Police