A couple ways to keep the home safe

Headed out of town or making a quick trip to the store?

I'm not suggesting you take the risk of allowing Harry and Marvin waltz right into your home so you can see them suffer your obstacle course. There are a couple of preventative precautions you can take to ensure the safety of your home.

One simple and free way to keep those burglars away is to tend to the yard. Security World News suggests to

"Take care of your yard. Keep your grass cut and neat, bushes trimmed so that they are no higher than the windowsill, trees and hedges pruned and your yard free of debris or newspapers waiting to be brought inside."

Purchase motion detector lights on the outside perimeters of your house. We have two near the gates of our backyard. I remember sitting in my living room, and out of the corner of my eye I'd see the light come on. I would look outside and see a raccoon or a skunk, or sometimes my dog would sneak out. In the event that someone is sneaking in through your gates, the lights will immediately turn on, and will not turn off until that area is deserted.

Indoor timer lights creates the illusion that the home owner is still in the house. You can also leave the TV or radio on. RPC crews mention that they always think a customer is home when they walk into a home and hear the radio playing. Turns out the customer isn't even around! Talk about effectiveness.

Beware of Dog signs is a good way to make the intruders think twice. Put it on the back door somewhere close to pet mat.

So whether you're taking a long vacation or leaving the home for a brief period, these investments will keep your house safe and secure.

What do you do to keep your home safe? We'd love your feedback!

Photo provided by BandiCooty