Security World News » Annie Blanco

Prepare for the worst with “Ready” Kits

Annie Blanco — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 16:59:18 +0000

No one knows when or where a disaster might strike, so families need to take time to prepare for emergencies. The Home Safety Council advises families to have both a “Ready-to-Stay” kit and a “Ready-to-Go” kit. This will help if you lose power and have to stay inside for a few days, or if something happens and you need to leave immediately to get to a safer place.

Be Prepared –

Plan to be without power.

Make a “Ready-to-Stay” and a “Ready-to-Go” kit.

Use strong bags and mark the date you packed your “Ready-to-Go” kit.

Listen to the radio or television to find out if you should leave or stay at home.

If you will need a ride, ask someone ahead of time.

“Ready-to-Go” Kit –

1. One gallon of water per person

2. Food that does not have to be refrigerated and a manual can opener

3. Plastic/paper plates, cups and utensils

4. Flashlight and extra batteries

5. Battery-operated radio

6. Change of clothes

7. Card with your contact information and the number of someone out of state to call

8. Small first aid kit

9. Personal identification card

10. Personal hygiene items, soap and hand sanitizer

11. Store medicine you usually take near your “Ready-to-Go” kit

”Ready-to-Stay” Kit –

1. Three gallons of water for each family member

2. Canned food and snacks for at least three days and a manual can opener

3. Pet food and supplies for three days

4. Toilet paper

5. Non-scented bleach

6. Blankets

7. Books and games to keep busy

This article is sponsored by the home security store. We invite you to navigate throughout our website. We have dozens of sections covering a variety of home security kits, security cameras, personal safety products, environmental control devices, wired and wireless security products, and much more.

“American Idol” Viewer’s Threat prompts Workplace Safety

Annie Blanco — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 22:32:00 +0000

A hotel guest staying with two co-workers in Jacksonville, Florida allegedly resorted to some extreme measures to tune into his favorite show.

TV news station WJXT reports that Brooklyn, New York man Barran Prakash, 47, wanted his co-workers to change the TV channel so he could watch “American Idol.” When the co-workers did not comply, things turned very violent when Prakash grabbed a large butcher knife and held it to one man’s throat.

One of the co-workers was able to take the knife away when Prakash attacked him. Luckily, no one was reported to be hurt. Police took Prakash into custody. Ironically, “American Idol” was not even on that night.

This story, though odd and a bit funny, highlights the need to be aware of workplace violence, which can actually happen outside work. Universal Protection Service, a security provider for Southern California, offers some tips for detecting potentially violent behavior. Among the characteristics to look for is if the person is being unreasonable, controlling, paranoid, is a weapons or military enthusiast, is litigious, angry, violent, vindictive, odd, or overall unhealthy.

Tips on Avoiding Fraudulent Charitable Contribution Schemes

Annie Blanco — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 17:10:37 +0000

The FBI is reminding people to use caution when making donations in wake of the disasters in Japan. Unfortunately, at times like these is when criminals exploit these tragedies for their own gain by sending fraudulent e-mails and creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions. Solicitations can originate from e-mails, websites, door-to-door collections, flyers, mailings, telephone calls, and other similar methods.

The FBI and the National Center for Disaster Fraud have an existing tip line to receive information from the public about suspected fraud associated with the earthquake and tsunami that affected Japan.

In a press release, the FBI says tips should be reported to the National Center for Disaster Fraud, (866) 720-5721. The line is staffed by a live operator 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Additionally, e-mails can be sent to disaster@leo.gov, and information can be faxed to (225) 334-4707.

The FBI continues to remind the public to perform due diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations or individuals offering to provide assistance to the people of Japan. Before making a donation of any kind, consumers should adhere to certain guidelines, including:

1. Do not respond to any unsolicited (spam) incoming e-mails, including clicking links contained within those messages because they may contain computer viruses.

2. Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as members of charitable organizations or officials asking for donations via e-mail or social networking sites.

3. Beware of organizations with copy-cat names similar to but not exactly the same as those of reputable charities.

4. Rather than follow a purported link to a website, verify the legitimacy of nonprofit organizations by utilizing various Internet-based resources that may assist in confirming the group’s existence and its nonprofit status.

5. Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.

6. To ensure contributions are received and used for intended purposes, make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.

7. Do not be pressured into making contributions; reputable charities do not use such tactics.

8. Be aware of whom you are dealing with when providing your personal and financial information. Providing such information may compromise your identity and make you vulnerable to identity theft.

9. Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by credit card or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals.

10. Legitimate charities do not normally solicit donations via money transfer services. Most legitimate charities websites end in .org rather than .com.

The National Center for Disaster Fraud was created by the Department of Justice to investigate, prosecute, and deter fraud in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, when billions of dollars in federal disaster relief poured into the Gulf Coast region. Now, its mission has expanded to include suspected fraud from any natural or man-made disaster. More than 20 federal agencies, including the FBI, participate in the NCDF, which allows the center to act as a centralized clearinghouse of information related to disaster relief fraud.

Dealing with Disgruntled Employees

Annie Blanco — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 20:49:41 +0000

Dealing with negative, disgruntled, or even hostile employees cannot only be a real nuisance, but can lead to firings and lawsuits. That’s why dealing with frustrated, unmotivated employees, who create a bad work environment, should be dealt with professionally and within the law.

First, if a company policy is in place for dealing with disgruntled employees, you should follow it. If your company has its own guidelines then it is very imperative that you use their policies so that there is consistency within the work place. If there is no such policy then you should seek help from your supervisor or human resources department and together form a plan of your own, documenting your moves every step of the way.

It is important that as a supervisor you take a strong position in handling the disgruntled employee. The first part of your plan should deal with confronting the employee as soon as the inappropriate situation or behavior occurs. If you are not sure of how to handle your employee issue because you need more time to investigate or to think about the consequences, make it clear to the employee that you have serious concerns about their behavior and that you would like to meet with them to discuss the issue. Schedule a time to meet with the employee later in the day or first thing in the morning.

When you do meet with your employee, explain a specific description of a hostile environment, employee actions that lead to such an environment, and what the company philosophy is for taking action to alleviate the problem. Many times, the employee does not realize that his or her behavior has become a problem. Perhaps taking these first steps can help solve many of the problems early on without adding to a bad work situation.

In extreme circumstances, where a supervisor is unable to communicate with the disgruntled employee, or perhaps the issue is between these two individuals, your HR consultant can intervene and facilitate a mediation meeting. This tactic, according to HRAdvisors.com, will help solve a number of problems and can be the wakeup call that the employee needs to turn the disruptive behavior into positive behavior overall. As HRAdvisors.com explains, mediation is a very professional way for the company and the supervisor to get a little added help in a circumstance that maybe they are not equipped to handle or have received the proper training. Here is some other advice from HRAdvisors.com –

Sometimes through mediation or one-on-one meetings, it may become necessary for the employee to go through a trial period or receive some obligated time off. It is very important to note that whatever tactic is chosen, all parties involved must maintain a professional demeanor around the employee. This is an issue affecting the production in a company and must be handled in a professional manner so that the morale of all employees is not threatened.

Remember, there are many ways to deal with a so-called “bad apple” employee without pulling the trigger and firing that person. However, if firing is the way to go, be sure you have done everything within your means to resolve the matter.

Illinois Death Penalty Abolished

Annie Blanco — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 23:51:04 +0000

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed into law a bill abolishing the death penalty. The governor also commuted the death sentences of the 15 men on death row in the state, who will all serve life in prison with no chance of parole.

All this comes after years of debate over the possibility that Illinois would somehow execute an innocent person. Over the past two decades, 20 people have been freed from death row after evidence surfaced indicating they were innocent or had been wrongly convicted.

Quinn called this the hardest decision he has had to make as governor, but one he felt was required.

“If the system can’t be guaranteed 100 percent error-free, then we shouldn’t have the system,” Quinn said.

Illinois will become the 16th state in the nation to ban capital punishment when the law goes into effect in July.

Gary Gauger, who was sentenced to die for killing his parents before ultimately being proven innocent, told the Associated Press that he thinks other states will follow Illinois’ example.

“The death penalty is a throwback to a time when society did not have the ability to hold homicidal maniacs … for the rest of their lives,” Gauger said.

New Jersey eliminated its death penalty in 2007. New Mexico followed in 2009, although new Republican Gov. Susana Martinez wants to reinstate it. On a larger scale, most nations have abandoned the death penalty. Among the 58 nations that still use it are China, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, and Japan.

Intruder calls Police during Home Break-in

Annie Blanco — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 19:18:39 +0000

In Portland, a would-be-burglar broke into a home only to call police for help after the owner came home. Intruder Timothy James Chapek told the 911 operator that he was scared because he thought the owner might have a gun. To top it all off the female homeowner had two German shepherd dogs with her as well. Here’s what happened –

The owner told police that she came home and found the intruder in the bathroom taking a shower. The homeowner, along with her two German shepherd dogs, asked the man what he was doing in the house. The suspect then locked himself in the bathroom and called 911 for help, while the homeowner called 911 as well.

During the call, the intruder can be heard telling the homeowner that he was “kidnapped” and somehow ended up in the house. He also tells the homeowner his name.

24-year-old Chapek was arrested on charges of first-degree criminal trespass.

Fire Safety Tips While Pumping Gas

Annie Blanco — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:11:42 +0000

When filling up your car with gas, it doesn’t take much of a charge to ignite gasoline vapors. It could be a cell phone or static electricity. That’s why motorists are told not to use their cell phone when pumping gas, but what are some other tips? The NFPA has these safety tips when pumping gas.

1. Turn off your vehicle’s engine when refueling

2. Don’t smoke, light matches, or use lighters while refueling.

3. Don’t get in and out of your vehicle while refueling. A static electric charge can develop on your body as you slide across the seat, and when you reach for the pump, a spark can ignite gasoline vapor.

4. If you must get into the vehicle during refueling, discharge any static electricity by touching metal on the outside of the vehicle, away from the filling point, before removing the nozzle from your vehicle.

5. Use only the refueling latch on the gasoline dispenser nozzle, if there is one. Do not jam the latch with an object to hold it open.

6. To avoid spills, do not top off or overfill your vehicle.

7. After pumping gasoline, leave the nozzle in the tank opening for a few seconds to avoid drips when you remove it.

8. If a fire starts while you’re refueling, don’t remove the nozzle from the vehicle or try to stop the flow of gasoline. Leave the area immediately and call for help.

© Annie Blanco for Security World News, 2011. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: fire safety tips, gas station fires

Home Computer Security Tips

Annie Blanco — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 21:48:08 +0000

Although there is more good than bad on the internet, you must not let your guard down when surfing online, especially on your home computer. That’s because cyber criminals can spread viruses on your home computer that can wipe out your files and infiltrate your computer. They do this to gather personal information, like account codes and passwords, so in turn they can steal your identity. Here are some online usage tips by internet company Webroot –

•Avoid questionable websites, such as adult sites and file sharing sites

•Only download software from sites you trust

•Regularly update your operating system and browser security settings

•Install computer security software that updates regularly and provides up-to-the-minute protection

•Use antivirus protection, a firewall and antispyware software

•Use varied and complex passwords for all your accounts, including online shopping accounts, bank accounts and social networking sites

As the last tip pointed out, using secure passwords is paramount in your online security. When choosing passwords for your bank account, email, and other sensitive information, be sure to use an intricate password that is not publicly available or easy for a fraudster to guess. Remember, weak passwords include birthdays, common words, your mother’s maiden name, and the last four digits of your social security number. Strong passwords, according to StaySafeOnline.org, contain a mixture of letters, numbers and special characters (e.g., “?”, “!”, “#”, etc.). For critical accounts, it’s also a good idea to use a unique password, different from the passwords used for less important purposes.

Sometimes a Child’s SCREAM is a Good Thing

Annie Blanco — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 19:52:34 +0000

Does a screaming kid drive you nuts? A child may scream for many different reasons. While most of the time a child screams for all the wrong reasons, a child might just scream for the right one. What if someone tried to take your child away? Would you want them to scream? The answer is definitely yes.

This is perhaps why Russell Thorton, in his Free Amber Alert GPS E-book, writes about the four mistakes parents often make. The number one mistake that he lists is not letting your child scream.

Thorton writes –

A child’s scream has an uncanny way of raising the hair on the back of your neck. The pitch of their voice (that only a child can create) or the shrill of the sound makes you want to cover your ears and turn away. Regardless, when a child screams, not only does it alarm you, it can be downright unnerving to everyone around.

If you are a concerned parent, then you should know that your child’s scream is the first and most effective line of defense. An effective child scream will alarm, unsettle, and make a potential predator instinctively turn away.

Talking about screaming with your child is a must. You should give them your approval to scream (and scream loud) if they ever find themselves in a bad situation. Encourage your child to trust his or her gut instinct. Don’t remove their first line of defense against a potential predator.

Can Your Alarm Company be Found Online?

Annie Blanco — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 23:05:47 +0000

Thousands of people visit MyAlarmInstaller.com to make decisions about what alarm company to choose. Can your security business be found? If not, you are missing out. MyAlarmInstaller.com is the answer and the good news is that it’s absolutely free to business owners. With this national database of alarm installers, when a potential customer is searching for a business like yours in your area, they will find you. Increase your exposure online with MyAlarmInstaller.com.

The My Alarm Installer website was developed as a resource to help match up alarm installers with potential customers, be that residential or commercial. To find an installer near you all you have to do is go to the website and enter in your zip code. You will then find alarm installer contractors that serve your area or nearby. It’s just that easy.

If you are a major alarm company, chances are that you have already been listed on MyAlarmInstaller.com. If that is the case then My Alarm Installer staff encourages you to claim your listing. When you do so, you can upload company photos, logos, and edit information. For more go to MyAlarmInstaller.com.

Safety Tips when using Wireless Networks at Home

Annie Blanco — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 21:55:26 +0000

Wireless internet access is now available in airports, hotels, and coffee shops. This technology makes accessing the internet easy, fast, and cheap. Moreover, wireless internet access has now made it into your own home. This means homeowners are no longer forced to work at a desk near the designated modem. Rather, you can access the internet and the other computers in your network from your kitchen table, the bedroom, or even the backyard. But how safe is this?

The innovation of wireless networking is that instead of using wires, radio waves are used to send information between computers. To achieve this there is a device known as an access point (AP). An access point will broadcast a wireless signal that computers can detect and “tune” into. But again, how safe is this technology?

Internet security firm, CPP offers several tips for safely using wireless networks.

1. Use encryption on your wireless access points (WAP) — Make sure you have Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) — the latest security standard introduced by global, non-profit industry association, the Wi-Fi Alliance.

2. By implementing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) you can create a secure wireless network. This is achieved by encrypting all of the data that passes over the ‘insecure’ network so that it cannot be accessed by an eavesdropper.

3. Install a firewall on any network you use (an electronic barrier that sits on a network server and protects the PCs hidden behind).

4. All wireless routers should have obscure IDs. Rather than put in any real information that can make it clear who owns the connection or that can reveal your location or business name, use something common like “wireless” or “router 1″ that doesn’t give away anything critical.

5. Try to position access points, which transfer data between your devices, away from the outside wall of your building to minimize leakage of radio signals. This limits the chances of interception from outside.

6. If you run a business, don’t allow employees to add access points without your authorization.

7. Be aware of what information you are accessing online, specifically when using public hotspots. Remember that any information you submit, including usernames and passwords, can be read by others.

8. Make sure you check your bank statements regularly to monitor for suspicious transactions.

9. Remember the Golden Rule: Identity thieves are experts at spotting an opportunity to steal your identity and only need a few personal details.

In addition, there are internal settings that can be changed in the wireless router setup that will limit the number of wireless users the router will accept at a given time. If you only have one computer on the wireless router, it’s a good idea to limit the number of users the router will accept to just one. Plus, don’t leave the wireless routers password set to the manufacturers default. Rather, change it to something unique and private.

Keep in mind, wireless internet routers are here to stay and will only get better in the years to come. But as technology gets better, so do the minds of the culprits who want to steal your information. Therefore, safety while accessing any wireless network, no matter where you are at, should always be on your mind.

© Annie Blanco for Security World News, 2011. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: wireless network safety

Reasons to Rekey Your Locks

Annie Blanco — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 23:17:16 +0000

A change of residence is one of the most common reasons for needing to rekey a door lock. Other situations that call for changing a lock may include hiring new employees, or a change in renters of your property. Whatever the case may be, rekeying your locks and when to do it should be taken very seriously and is a major part of good home security. After all, knowledge and best practices can make all the difference in keeping you and your home safe.

According to a Kwikset American Security Study, nearly one-third of homeowners have lived in their current residence for five years or less. And while moving into a new home can be very exciting, it’s also a vulnerable time for home security because there is no telling how many people have copies of your house key. That is, unless you have physically changed or rekeyed the locks yourself, which is an affordable, smart and simple way to up your odds of foiling a break-in before it ever occurs.

According to Kwikset, the following are five important reasons to rekey or change the locks at home

1. You have lost, stolen, or unreturned keys – More than half of homeowners routinely loan out house keys to people who don’t live there. For example, housekeepers, gardeners, babysitters, neighbors and so on.

2. You have recently moved – A shocking 47 percent of U.S. homeowners did not rekey their locks upon moving into their home, with about a third having never rekeyed or changed their locks at any point since living there.

3. You have new tenants – When tenants move out, they give the key back. But there’s no way to know if they’re holding on to a copy. Ensure the security of your rental unit by rekeying the lock immediately upon tenant departure. Not only will this ensure no unwanted “houseguests” are staying on the premises while vacant, but it’s also important for the safety of your new tenants.

4. You are remodeling, upgrading, or updating – Even when working with the most reputable contractors, the minute you give them a house key you are giving up control over your own home security. There is no telling how many copies they could potentially make, and there is no guarantee of the integrity of their subcontractors.

5. You would prefer one-key convenience – Imagine how much easier it would be if one key unlocked all the points of entry to your home. No more fumbling through key rings trying to decipher which key unlocks what.

Remember, the majority of the time burglary happens during the day. Moreover, homeowners are making it simple for the burglar to break-in by leaving their front door unlocked and/or vulnerable. Don’t leave your doors vulnerable by not rekeying your locks. Spend a little extra money and time researching what locks work best for your home and how much those locks will cost. It’s a minimal cost to pay if that means preventing a break-in.

Fraud & Identity Theft Prevention for the Holiday Season

Annie Blanco — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 21:46:15 +0000

The holidays are here, and for some, the season of giving is also a time for taking. The bad news is that statistics show during the 12 days leading up to Christmas nearly a quarter of a million Americans will lose something that Santa will not be able to replace – their identity. With identity thefts occurring at the rate of an average of 25,000 each day, the holiday season is just as big an opportunity for identity thieves as it is for retailers. Here are tips from Wells Fargo & Company to protect your identity and your money from fraud. Before heading out the door or logging on to your favorite websites, review these tips:

Monitor purchase activity: Remember to review your account activity regularly, especially when you’re busy shopping for the holidays. Enroll in mobile banking so you can view a snapshot of your accounts while on the go and monitor your purchase activity online from home. Also sign up for transaction alerts for your checking account, debit card, and credit card to receive text or e-mail notification about account activity.

Don’t over-share on social websites: During this holiday season, when using the internet for keeping in touch with friends and family as well as for making purchases, remember not to “over-share.”

Be careful what you disclose: Be wary of special holiday offers or requests for personal or financial information via e-mail, text message, phone, or website for interactions you didn’t initiate. If you’re suspicious about a request for your information, verify that the request is legitimate by calling the number on the company’s website or billing statement.

Protect your computers from malware with regular anti-virus updates: Updating anti-virus software on your computer is the first step toward protecting yourself. Remember not to download suspicious attachments or plug-ins. When making purchases, be sure the website address starts with “https.” The “s” helps ensure that your information will be passed along in a secure manner.

Take the paperless route with online banking: The 2010 Identity Fraud Survey Report from Javelin Strategy & Research showed that some fraudsters continue to access personal and financial information the old-fashioned way — by stealing bank or credit card statements from the mailbox. Reduce your risk of stolen mail by retrieving mail promptly and switching to online statements.

Ensure you’re protected in case of theft: Check with your financial institution to ensure you’re covered if funds are removed from your account.

Know what to do if you lose your handbag or wallet: Take a moment to inventory or photocopy the personal and financial information you carry in your handbag or wallet, including items such as your driver’s license, bank cards, checks, and credit cards. Store your inventory list or photocopies in a secure location. This important step will help you know whom to contact if your handbag or wallet is lost or stolen.

Remember, there is always so much going on during the holidays. Everyone is rushing around getting last minute gifts and finalizing travel plans, but don’t forget to put your safety first.

© Annie Blanco for Security World News, 2010. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: christmas shopping safety, fraud, Identity Theft

Dryer Fires and How to Prevent Them

Annie Blanco — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:15:24 +0000

Approximately 15,000 dryer fires happen each year, yet this type of fire is often overlooked. Nevertheless, dryer fires are a very real threat to your home and your family. Here’s a look at what causes dryer fires and what you can do to prevent them, as reported by Underwriters Laboratories.

One of the most common causes of dryer fires is lack of maintenance. When lint traps aren’t cleaned as often as they should be, the resulting build-up in the screen or other areas can cause the dryer to perform poorly, operate at elevated temperatures and possibly overheat. UL recommends that vent systems be checked and cleaned to maintain proper air flow for the same reasons. Problems may also occur if consumers place improper items in their dryers, such as foam backed rugs or athletic shoes, or vent their appliances with plastic or vinyl exhaust materials.

UL says you should make sure that your dryer has rigid or flexible metal venting and ducting materials to help sustain airflow. This will also reduce operating costs and extend the life of the dryer and clothing due to lower drying temperatures. In addition, homeowners can clean the lint trap before and after drying each load of clothes. Don’t forget to clean the back of the dryer where lint can be trapped. Furthermore, the interior of the dryer and venting system should be cleaned periodically by qualified service people. You should also replace plastic or vinyl exhaust hoses with rigid or flexible metal venting.

10 Tips to Keep Your Residence & Family Safe

Annie Blanco — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 22:33:26 +0000

Statistics show that a burglar will spend 45 minutes deciding which home is going to be his next target, but only three minutes actually burglarizing the residence. How do you prevent your home from becoming a target? First, it’s all about appearance. The objective is to make your house less attractive to a would-be-thief. That’s because a thief is going to pick a home that looks like an easy score, but this is where a plan of action comes in. And secondly, you have to follow through with that plan of action. This is the only way that you will stay of a thief’s radar. With this in mind, the security experts at Schlage have come up with a top ten list of things you can do help to keep your home and your family safe and free from crime.

1. Make sure each exterior door has a solid core and is protected by a high-quality deadbolt, including the door linking the garage and house. Also, secure all windows with quality locks – even those on the second floor.

2. Invest in a home-security system with central monitoring, and if you move into a home that already has a security system, change the entry code.

3. Keep your property well lit at night and install motion sensors on exterior lights. The last thing a burglar wants is a spotlight shining on him as he creeps up to the house. Also keep your landscaping trimmed so shrubs don’t hide your windows and consider planting prickly shrubbery near windows (think holly bushes).

4. Never leave your home unlocked and don’t “hide” spare keys outside – crooks will find them. Even better, consider installing a keypad lock on your front door so you don’t have to worry about keys. While we’re talking about the outside, remember to use a padlock or cable lock to secure gates and fences around your home.

5. Working parents with latchkey kids should consider a remote entry/home-management system that lets you use your cell phone to monitor cameras at home, unlock doors, turn lights on and off and receive text alerts when the kids come home from school.

6. If you’re going away, even for a few days, ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your house and collect newspapers and mail (or have deliveries stopped until you return). Also, put a few lights on timers so it looks like someone is home.

7. Don’t let your kids play alone outside or in public places.

8. Never put your child’s name on clothes, jewelry, hats, back packs and other belongings that people can readily see.

9. Teach your children to never say “I am home alone” when they answer the phone. Tell them to let the answering machine pick up or say “my mom and dad are busy and can’t come to the phone.”

10. If your child rides a bike to school, make sure he or she has a high-quality bike lock and remind him/her to attach the bike to a secure object (like a bike rack).

© Annie Blanco for Security World News, 2010. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: Home Security Tips