5 Tips to Pretend That You're Always Home

We don't expect you to be at home 24/7 but if you are concerned about the security of your home you should always give the impression that you are home or that your house isn't dormant for an extended period.

Here are 5 ways to make your home look inhabited.

1. Keep your yard clean - When the leaves build up and branches look wild your house looks empty. Another reason to keep up on your curb appeal.

2. Newspapers and mail - Everyone knows this. This is why you make friends with your neighbors. They can check your mail and grab your paper. If no one is around to do that just make a quick call and put a stop to your paper. If your neighbor can't check the mail have a friend or family member stop by.

3. Lights on a timer - Again, nothing new here but put lights in different rooms on timers and set them for different times. Changes it up a bit.

4. Leave music on - Save energy and unplug the home theater but turn on a clock radio in a couple rooms. Sound is a great deterrent.

5. Get a dog - Obviously you can't leave a dog alone for a long time but if you've got friends or family who can check in on your pet then your golden. Dogs are a great no matter how big. No need to get a pitbull as long as the dog can bark and give warning - crooks know this too.

photo: RadioFish