The Top 5 Ways to Beef Up Home Security During the Recession

All across, the country, the trend is obvious.
With the economy suffering, the effects of unemployment and the crumbling housing market, petty crime and burglaries have been on the rise.
Police departments know it but can't do anything about it, with budget crunches trickling down to even their vital services.
It turns out that the first and last protector of home security is the homeowner.
It's not necessarily a jungle out there, but you should watch out in areas the police can't.
Here are the five best ways to stay safe while the criminal population looks to expand their operations.
1.
Expand your home security system's reach.
Get creative and figure out how criminals might get comfortable around your property.
Can they hang out by a tree without being seen? If you have a wireless system, get coverage on the outer reaches of your property.
Consider installing a surveillance camera in hard-to-see places.
If the criminal is out there, you'll know every move he makes.
2.
Start a publicity stunt.
Become a sponsor of your home security company, so to speak, by putting signs out in your yard and in general, publicizing through stickers and cards.
You will make it public that you are in fact the proud owner of a terrifying alarm, one that is ready to alert the authorities at a moment's notice.
3.
Shine a light on the matter.
With motion-detecting spotlights positioned around your house, you'll make any unwelcome guest as uncomfortable as can be.
There's nothing like a blinding light to scare off someone lurking in the shadows.
Even the most professional burglars will go scurrying off before trying their luck.
4.
Consider the hustler factor.
Smooth-talking, well-groomed criminals are the talk of the town, and they have talked their way inside many homes across the country.
Put out an all-points-bulletin at the next family meal: anyone who knocks on the door should be denied entry.
In fact, the door should never open unless a trusted individual is on the other end.
The best home alarm system in the world won't stop a fake electrician as he waltzes through your living room as a guest.
5.
Get everyone up to speed on the latest developments in your alarm's usage.
Can everyone in the family enable and disable your home alarm? What is the protocol when the alarm sounds? If the security company calls your home, make sure everyone knows how to respond, even young children.
By giving the green light for your security professional to send help, you will take advantage of the right moment to ward off criminals and keep everyone safe at home.