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Contact:
Karl Newman, President
Darrin Sanger, Communications Director
NW Insurance Council
Phone: (206) 624-3330
Fax: (206) 624-1975
karl.newman@nwinsurance.org
darrin.sanger@nwinsurance.org
Avoid summer break-ins;
make home security a priority while on vacation
SEATTLE - Summer is in full swing and people are taking
advantage of it as they plan vacations and camping trips around
Independence Day.
But campers and vacationers aren't the only ones with gleams of
excitement in their eyes. Burglars are hoping to have a rich, comfortable
summer at your expense.
Cash, jewelry, furniture and appliances are just a few of the home
items thieves prey on while people are on vacation.
"A few simple precautions can make your home a lot less attractive
to burglars," said Karl Newman, NW Insurance Council president,
"and you'll be able to relax a little more while you're away."
If you're planning a weekend getaway or an extensive vacation,
the NW Insurance Council offers these tips to help you protect your
home and belongings from burglars:
- Lock all doors and windows. Sliding glass doors have weak locks.
Install a bolt lock and place a broomstick or dowel in the inside
door track.
- Make your home look less attractive to thieves. Leave blinds
open in their usual position. Leave a little trash in your garbage
can. Arrange to have your lawn mowed. All of these tactics can
give burglars the indication that someone is home.
- Stop all mail and newspaper deliveries. A stuffed mailbox or
a pile of rolled newspapers in front of the door leaves a clear
impression that you aren't home.
- Trim hedges next to your home so burglars do not have a place
to hide.
- Tell police and dependable neighbors when you plan to be away
and when you expect to return. Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on
your home and property.
- Do not hide keys in secret places outside your home. Experienced
burglars usually know where to look.
Standard homeowners insurance policies normally cover damage and
theft caused by burglars. Call your company or agent if you have
questions.
For free brochures on homeowners insurance coverage and how to
protect your home from burglary, contact the NW Insurance Council
at (206) 624-3330 or (800) 664-4942.
The NW Insurance Council is a nonprofit, consumer education
organization funded by member insurance companies.
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