Create the illusion that someone is at your house if you're away for an extended period of time. Leave a TV or stereo on in a room where a burglar would most likely break in. Use exterior lighting and motion detectors to minimize burglar concealment.

Make sure all exterior doors have good proper locks. Install 1-inch deadbolt locks on all exterior doors.

If you get an unexpected knock at the door, check to see who it is before opening it. You can also keep your wireless keychain handy when there's a stranger at the door, in case you need to call for help in an instant.

Don't leave extra keys under doormats, potted plants or any other obvious outdoor location. Thieves will generally find them. Find an inconspicuous place to hide the keys, or give a set to a neighbor you can trust.

Burglar-proof your glass patio doors by setting a pipe or metal bar in the middle bottom track of the door slide. The pipe should be the same length as the track. Optional home security equipment, such as a glass break sensor can also be used to detect when a glass door or window is shattered and alert you of a break-in.

Keep garage doors closed at all times. Even when you're home, it's important to safeguard your belongings and your family. By keeping garage doors closed, it prohibits intruders from gaining access to a door that leads directly into your home. Home security system components such as an overhead garage door contact can also provide added protection to your home.

Keep drapes and blinds shut - especially in rooms where there is expensive equipment. Don't advertise the items in your home. By investing in a home security system and following home safety tips like this, you can help protect your investments, even when you're not there.

Store cash, jewelry and other valuables in a safe or safety deposit box instead of leaving them lying around the home. Helping protect your investments and furnishing your home with a security system can help lower your risk of a home invasion or burglary.

Don't leave notes on the door for service people or family members when you're not there. These alert the burglar that you are not home. It's also important to remember to arm your system every time you leave your house to ensure your home, pets and valuables are safe.

Adjust your telephone ring to its lowest volume setting, if you're going to be away from home for a few days. An unanswered phone may tip off a burglar that no one is home. Also, have a neighbor or friend collect your newspaper and mail. Never cancel delivery - you don't know who will get that information.