• Install motion-sensitive outdoor lighting around your property.
• Use lights on timers when away from home.
• Use compact fluorescent bulbs which are longer lasting and more cost effective.

• Keep your lawn mowed and garden tended so your home has a lived-in look.
• Keep shrubs and trees pruned so that your house is visible to your neighbours - don't give would-be thieves access to your home by hiding doors or windows behind overgrown bushes.
• Place thorny shrubs in front of potential access points for burglars - i.e. in front of lower windows.
• In winter, have someone shovel your driveway if you're on vacation.

With most families being dual income, houses are left unoccupied throughout the day. These are things the criminal element take note of. Stay-at-home parents, retirees, or home business people can be your eyes while you are at work. Teaching your children to take note of strangers can also be useful. If you see a stranger lurking around a neighbour's house or someone carrying a gym bag entering the property when the owner is away, call the police. Also take note of the time and jot down a description, take digital photos, video, etc.