Due to the recent economic crisis, more and more homes are sitting empty. Whether due to a foreclosure or a homeowner who has moved on without finding a buyer for their home, this fact means growing opportunities for squatters to move into once quiet and secure residential neighborhoods. Though you may think of squatters as only a problem of urban slums, recently there have been instances of squatters taking up residence in million-dollar homes.

In many new areas where this had never before been a concern, neighbors have begun noticing this strange new phenomenon. If you're unfamiliar with the problem, a 'squatter' is anyone who moves into an empty or abandoned building without the acceptance of the owners. Whether in a business or home, these squatters can live with a roof over their heads for months or even years without being disturbed or kicked out by the rightful owners, who may not even live in the same state as the property.

The problem with squatters is that they have no incentive to care for the property. They pay no rent, mortgages, or other expenses related to the upkeep of the home. Often, squatters mean drugs and other vices, not to mention graffiti and property crime. Often, these activities spread into the neighboring area, creating problems not only for the homeowner but also for the neighbors. Squatting is a serious issue, and not one that you should turn a blind eye to. Though you may feel bad that the occupants have nowhere else to go, they are committing a crime simply by staying there, and often bring other crimes to the area.

What can you do about this problem? First, if you are a landlord, check on all of your properties frequently. In just weeks, a tenant could skip out on rent and squatters could move in, and no one would be the wiser. If you live in another state, hire a property manager to keep an eye on your rentals. If you have been notified that someone may be squatting in one of your properties, call the police immediately. If the problem goes on for too long, they could gain legal title to your property by virtue of occupying it, through a process known as adverse possession.

If you must leave your property vacant, equip it with door and window alarms, surveillance cameras, and other devices to discourage these behaviors. These also make good investments for surrounding property owners, whether they suspect squatters or not, as they will discourage a range of criminal activities in the neighborhood.

What can you do if it's not your property that is lying vacant, but a neighbor's? If you suspect squatters, contact the police immediately. Signs can include someone living in a home you know to be vacant, or people living in a home with no utilities. Never approach a suspected squatter by yourself, as they may be dangerous. As with any suspected criminals in your neighborhood, it's best to let the police handle it.

Far too many homeowners put off installing door and window alarms, surveillance cameras, and other home security devices because they don't think they need to. The fact is, today there are home security options for any home and any budget. You have no excuse not to protect your home and your family! Here are the most prevalent myths when it comes to protecting your home:

1. Only homeowners in wealthy neighborhoods need to use these devices. When it comes down to it, any home is vulnerable to a break-in, whether you live in a bad neighborhood or a gated community. Effective security devices like door and window alarms or dummy cameras will protect any home. 

2. You don't have anything worth protecting. While you may not have a big-screen TV, you probably do have a few nice pieces of jewelry upstairs in your bedroom, a computer in the living room, and expensive  tools in the garage. Plus, many of today's criminals are after more than your belongings – they will go through your papers in an attempt to steal your identity. The truth is, any home has something of value to criminals.

3. Home alarm systems are expensive and a waste of money. While whole-house alarm systems can be pricy depending on the size and layout of your home, there are plenty of other options for protecting your home. Setting up such security in your home doesn't have to be expensive, making it a great option even for those who don't have a mansion to protect. Door and window alarms, dummy surveillance cameras, and other devices can be installed for well under $100. These devices don't require paying a monthly fee to an alarm company. Plus, think about the risk of not protecting your home – is having to replace all of your belongings really worth skimping on home security? Your security should never be measured in terms of money.

4. An alarm system will constantly be set off accidentally. While this may have been common years ago, today's sophisticated systems can tell the difference between a real threat and your pet cat. Even motion detector alarms are available in pet-friendly models so that you can avoid accidentally setting it off.

5. Security devices are hard to install, and require special knowledge and tools. In fact, today's wireless alarms and cameras are easier than ever to install. There are no wires to run, and no holes to cut in your wall. DIY enthusiasts will find it easy to install wireless home security features. Improving your home security is a great weekend project!

6. A blaring alarm won't be enough to scare away a criminal. While most people have become accustomed to car alarms blaring in the night, the fact is, such sirens are still effective. No criminal wants to be caught, whether breaking into a home or trying to steal a car. In fact, putting up signs that say your home is protected by alarms has been shown to deter criminals even when no such system was actually installed. Criminals won't take the chance of being caught on your property, and would rather break into an unprotected home.

The Bachelor Pad – every man's dream – could turn into a nightmare faster than you ever imagined possible if you neglect to handle important security concerns from the outset. Having a bachelor pad isn't just about fun and games, watching sports on TV and enjoying pizza and beer every night. In fact, living on your own can actually become more complicated than sharing the space with roommates, since you're responsible for taking care of everything in the household, including home safety.

A Bachelor's Pad means that you're living on your own, and you have no one to watch out for your safety but yourself. Male bravado means you might feel like you can always take care of yourself, but what happens if an armed burglar breaks in? Don't let your pride prevent you from taking the necessary steps to protect your safety before it comes down to fighting back against an intruder. While owning a bachelor's pad can be an exciting time in any young man's life, it's also a moment that requires careful consideration.

If you are fortunate enough to live by yourself in a swanky bachelor pad, don't just equip your home with the latest entertainment systems. While you're at it, make sure to install security cameras and outdoor lighting. These technological gadgets might not be as exciting as the latest video gaming system or high-definition TV, but they are certainly just as important for your bachelor pad. If you do opt for a fancy TV, situate it so that your new purchase can't be spotted from the street, or your bachelor pad is sure to catch the attention of neighborhood criminals.

Living alone, you can easily get caught up in the excitement, forgetting to consider how your actions might impact your safety. Do you go out bar-hopping, returning home in the early hours of the morning? If so, do you always remember to lock the doors and turn on your home security alarm? What about throwing parties in your bachelor pad – do you always know all of the guests?

Now, these concerns don't mean that you have to tone down your lifestyle immensely. It just means that you must pay attention to the risks and do what you can to reduce them. For example, make a point to get to know anyone who arrives at your home for a party. Don't leave your door open while walking the dog in the morning, or unlocked when you make a beer run. These might seem like harmless security lapses, but it only takes seconds for a burglar to slip inside.

Guys living alone, no matter their age or independence level, should develop their own security methods to keep them safe while living in a bachelor pad. Check in from time to time with family members or friends, and don't go out drinking alone. When you are out partying, pay attention to how much you're drinking and who you're with to avoid placing yourself in harm's way. Even the toughest guy must pay attention to his lifestyle to make sure it's not putting him in unnecessary harm.

Although today pepper spray is wildly popular as a self defense device, originally the use of pepper spray was restricted to law enforcement personnel. In fact, The NYPD and the FBI were some of the first agencies to adopt the use of pepper spray, in 1991. After this date, more and more police forces began adding this useful product to their standard arsenal. Today, nearly all law enforcement personnel in the country, and also across the world, carry pepper spray.

For law enforcement, pepper spray presents a nonlethal and harmless way to subdue attackers. Though police officers do have guns at their disposal, in many cases the situation does not warrant potentially lethal harm.  Pepper spray, though it will take anyone down for at least fifteen minutes, leaves no lasting side effects. When you consider that most police officers' other choices are a gun or a baton, you can easily see why pepper spray fulfills a critical need in their arsenal of tools.

Its effectiveness is universal; unlike some other products, pepper spray is not affected by the weight of the target or whether they have consumed drugs or alcohol. It requires very little skill to use, yet will effectively disable anyone long enough for you to get away, or for a police officer to complete their arrest.

Another benefit of pepper spray for law enforcement personnel is its ability to control multiple suspects or attackers. Unlike a gun, baton, or stun gun, pepper spray can be used against several targets simultaneously, making it ideal for controlling a crowd or a group of attackers. A fogger pepper spray, in particular, is an excellent choice for those who may be confronting groups of violent attackers. While this is essential for law enforcement agents who may come up against a street riot or other large and violent crowds, this fact is just an important for those who are worried about being attacked by a gang or a group of muggers.

Many of the same reasons why pepper spray is popular with law enforcement makes this tool an excellent choice for civilian use. It is nonlethal, so you don't have to worry about hurting someone while trying to protect yourself. It can be used if you are attacked by more than one person. And perhaps best of all, it can be used effectively with very little training or experience, unlike some other self defense products.  Though you might think that something used by law enforcement probably requires a great deal of training, in fact pepper spray works just like an aerosol can of paint or hairspray. 

Often, the very same concentration of pepper spray that police officers carry is available to the general public. Get yourself some pepper spray, just like the police officers use, so that you can protect yourself. With crime rates increasing by the year, you can't rely on the police to protect you. Though protecting you is their responsibility, they can't be everywhere at once. If someone starts attacking you, you don't have minutes to wait for the sirens to approach.

Your older relatives may fondly remember that decades ago, home security meant nothing more than locking the door when you left. In fact, you yourself may even remember leaving your doors unlocked in the quiet suburban neighborhood where you grew up. Though in the not-too-distant past this was very common, times have certainly changed. Gone are the days of playing on tree-lined streets without worrying about a child abduction, or leaving the front door wide open without fearing a burglary.

The "good old days" are gone forever, and with them the ability to ignore home security. Whether you live in an urban apartment, in an idyllic suburban neighborhood, or even on a rural farm, you must take steps to protect the security of your home and your family. Today, this goes way beyond the lock on your front door. It is no longer enough to just lock your door when you leave the home. In fact, you should be considering the security of your home, not to mention your personal security, every day. Make home security the top priority in your busy lifestyle – the consequences for not paying attention to your security can be devastating.

Luckily, even in the modern and dangerous world, there are steps you can take to protect your family. Use the many technological innovations in home security, from surveillance cameras to wireless alarms, to watch over your home. Security-minded homeowners undoubtedly realize that the ways they protected their homes decades ago will no longer suffice. However, technology has certainly kept up with this need, providing ways to protect your home and your family.

An astounding array of home security gadgets has replaced the method of locking your front door and relying on Fido to act as a guard dog. On the other hand, you don't need to get eye and fingerprint scanners, or other high-tech security methods, to keep your family safe. Still, wireless, electronic, and password-protected gadgets in a variety of styles protect your home and your family in high-tech ways.

You may be thinking that these high-tech gadgets come with a high pricetag, but this doesn't have to be so. Even with increasing attention on home security over the past few decades, outfitting your home with the latest devices can be done on almost any budget. A few wireless door and window alarms, for example, go a long way towards protecting your home. So, too, would a canister of pepper spray or a stun gun. If you're looking to make your dollar go further when planning your home security purchases, rest assured that today you can find advanced home security methods that go way beyond the type of home security that was common decades ago.

Just because today's lifestyle is faster-paced doesn't mean that you can't rely on your neighbors. In fact, today it is more important than ever to get to know those in your neighborhood. A neighborhood watch program is a great way to band together to watch out for each other's property. In an urban setting, such as a secured apartment buildings, residents should look out for each other by refusing to let people inside who they don't know.

Survival kits are meant to get you and your family through the critical first days following a disaster.  Such kits allow your family to survive in the absence of running water, electricity, and other basic needs that most of us take for granted. Most experts advise families to keep a survival kit that allows your family to survive at least 72 hours, or 3 days, without outside assistance. Others advise up to ten days of supplies. Typically, a survival kit is meant to cover six basic needs that will arise following any type of disaster, from a hurricane to an earthquake:

Food - Your family's emergency kit must contain enough non-perishable food to last three days. Don't forget a can opener and eating utensils, too. You will have far more energy, and be much more capable of keeping your family safe, if you have enough to eat.

Water - In an emergency, you can't count on water supply systems to work. Fresh drinking water is one of your most important survival needs. Iodine tablets or a small water purifier should be in every survival kit. If you have the room, several gallons of bottled water will ensure that you have enough to meet your family's immediate needs. Survival guidelines call for 3 quarts of water per person per day.

Shelter and warmth - Pack two sets of warm clothing for each family member into the survival kit. You'll also need to pack supplies to make your home habitable and warm. This includes several matches, a fire starter, and space blankets. Even if you live in an urban area, you may need them to keep warm. If you're worried about structural damage to your home, or need to plan for cases in which you must leave the home, pack duct tape and a tarp into your emergency kit.

Health - Basic medical supplies are an absolute necessity in a survival kit, because the disaster itself may injure you. It's also important to pack necessary medications, along with hygiene supplies such as hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and toothbrushes.

Safety - One of the most important items in your survival kit is a flashlight, because you might be spending quite a bit of time in the dark. It's also important to realize that in emergency situations, your family's safety could be endangered. Looting, as well as desperate people and animals in search of food and shelter, are just some of the dangers out there. Consider putting pepper spray or other self defense devices in your emergency survival kit to keep these threats at bay.

Extras - The best kits use your family's strengths and abilities, taking into account any weaknesses, to make you the most efficient. For example, if you have young kids, don't forget diapers, toys, and other necessities. Those with pets should include pet food in their survival kit. A good survival kit includes basic items that have many uses, such as rope, garbage bags, and a knife.

Before you purchase a survival kit or emergency necessities, first consider the types of disasters most likely to befall your region. If the most likely disaster is a hurricane, your emergency plans will be different than those for living in an earthquake zone. Still, most of the supplies you'll need will be the same.

Discovering that a family member has Alzheimer's can be difficult to accept. This disease is difficult to deal with because it can change the person's behaviors and personality drastically. If your family member has been diagnosed with this disease, pay attention to their home security to keep them safe. Though you may not need to make all of these changes right away, it is important to understand what you may be dealing with when caring for a person with Alzheimer's.

Whether you have Alzheimers, are trying to protect a family member or friend with the disease, or are preparing for a relative with Alzheimers to move into your home, it requires careful consideration with regards to home security and safety. Follow these tips to make the home safer for those with Alzheimer's:

Understand the disease - Families with relatives who have Alzeimer's must understand the behaviors that they may notice as the disease progresses. Understanding the disease allows you to maintain the safety and comfort of everyone in the home. Those with Alzheimer's typically become confused, disoriented, frightened, or frustrated. Often, these symptoms increase in frequency over time. 

Prevent slips and falls - Provide adequate lighting in and around the home. This is especially important near stairways and in hallways, where falls are more common and visibility tends to be poor. Rearrange furniture to reduce the possibility of slips or trips. Keep the home free of clutter and of small furniture such as ottomans or stools. Add safety handles and railings, especially in the bathroom and along stairways.

Remove household dangers - Preparing for an Alzeimer's patient has been compared to childproofing a home. Remove or lock up dangerous chemicals, medicines, household cleaners, tools, and weapons. Alzheimer's patients are known to rummage through drawers or hide their belongings in strange places. You may wish to install cabinet locks, such as those commonly used for childproofing. If you notice missing household items, from food to clothing to decor, your relative may be hiding them around the house.

Prevent wandering - One of the best-known symptoms of Alzeimer's is wandering. Your relative may wander off for several reasons, including confusion and boredom. If wandering out of the home is a problem, install door alarms or motion detectors that chime when someone crosses their path that you'll know when your relative is trying to leave. These devices are also essential home security devices as they will alert you when an intruder is trying to enter.

Hide a key - Those with Alzheimer's have been known to lock out their loved ones due to confusion. Keep a spare key in a disguised rock or thermometer so that you can get back into the house quickly. 

When changing your home to improve the safety and security of your loved one, you may not need to make all of these changes right away. Observe the behavior of your loved one to know when it is necessary to take these steps. Although difficult to accept, your loved one's safety may require these changes.

Anyone with children surely realizes that the time will come when it's time to trust their children to stay home alone. This is always a nerve-wracking time for parents, and it can also be a very touchy subject- some parents find it acceptable to let their young children come home from school alone, while others wouldn't dream of leaving their high-school students home alone for an afternoon.

The decision to stop hiring a babysitter when you'll be out of the house is one that must involve careful consideration. There is no set age when a child becomes responsible enough – so you must consider your child's responsibility level. Then, too, is the responsibility level of his or her friends. Do you trust them to behave themselves when home alone, or will they pressure your son or daughter into bad behaviors? Do the parents of your child's friends already allow them to stay home alone? This might factor into your decision, too.

Making the choice to allow your child to stay home alone isn't just about your child. It's also about the neighborhood in which you live and the security of your home. If you live in a safe neighborhood where parents routinely entrust their kids with a lot of responsibility, you might feel better about leaving your kids home alone.

Of course, it's also a decision about money. Maybe you must work long hours, or can't afford daycare or a babysitter. In this situation, you might find yourself leaving the kids home alone more than you ordinarily would. While this is certainly understandable, it is also important to set aside the resources needed to make your home as safe as possible while you're away.

There's nothing wrong with worrying about your kids when they are home by themselves, but you can help yourself feel more at ease by installing simple home security devices. Outdoor lighting, door and window alarms, and surveillance cameras will all make your home safer, and not just when your kids are home alone. Consider a "nanny cam" or hidden camera, which can transmit a real-time view of your home over the internet to your computer when you're away from home.

Home security is as much about information as it is about security devices. Talk with your child to make sure they feel comfortable staying home by themselves. Make sure they know how to get inside, and what to do in case of an emergency- from an intruder to a fire. If your kids are coming home from school to an empty house, leave a spare key in a disguised rock or thermometer so that they can get inside if they've forgotten theirs. Leave the phone number of a trusted neighbor, and tell them how to contact you if they feel the need.

Finally, establish house rules with your child. Can they invite friends over? Throw a party while you're away? Watch TV and eat junk food all day? Besides outlining acceptable behaviors while they're home alone, make sure that you reinforce the importance of using door and window locks, and arming the alarm system.

A cabin in the woods can be a peaceful escape from everyday life – that is, until someone breaks in. Security in your cabin is a difficult task, especially if you're "off the grid," or without electricity, phone service, and other utilities most people take for granted. Whether you're trying to protect a seasonal vacation spot or you live in the cabin full-time, security is a must. Though you can't install a whole-house alarm system, there are plenty of ways to protect your off-the-grid cabin.

If you have not yet purchased or built your cabin, you should be aware that location plays a role in home security, whether in an urban environment or in the middle of a forest. You may want to consider security when selecting a location for your hideaway. Look for a location that no one will stumble on accidentally. The safest cabin is one far away from main roads. Secured gates or private access roads are both good ideas when building a cabin.

The design of your cabin also impacts its safety. A fancy cabin, with all of the latest amenities, is much more likely to be broken into during the offseason than one that looks as though it hides nothing of value. If you must keep luxuries, like snowmobiles and four-wheelers, at the property, do your best to store them securely. Don't just leave them in a shed with the door unlocked, or there's a chance they will be long gone by the time you return.

If your cabin is used seasonally, seal up everything when you leave. Consider putting boards over windows and doors. Do not give intruders an easy way in. Your out-of-the-way cabin is already an attractive target because it's far away from prying eyes, so don't give burglars an extra reason to break in. Anyone who finds your cabin out here will know that no one will watch them break in, so your only hope is to make it not worth the time or effort.

When it comes to home security in your cabin, it's important to realize the types of intruders you might be up against. Besides the outdoorsmen who stumble onto your cabin from a trail or road, there may also be teens looking for a place to crash, especially if your cabin is near a main road. Don't keep alcohol in your cabin; some owners have even gone so far as to post a sign stating "no alcohol here" to keep partiers away. Also, not all intruders are human. Pests like rats, mice, and bugs are attracted to warmth and food. Never keep food, even small crumbs, in the house while you're away.

Finally, there are some home security devices that can be used for off-the-grid homes. Look towards heavy-duty deadbolts, battery-operated door and window alarms, dog-barking alarms, or even surveillance cameras that run on battery power. If you're looking for the best protection while you're enjoying your cabin, these security devices are a must-have. They don't require electrical power and take just a few minutes to install, making them an ideal choice for protecting an off-the-grid cabin.

Have you recently made the important decision to leave an abusive partner? This wise step can seem like a giant leap into the unknown. Besides the emotional aspects of leaving a bad relationship, there are also safety considerations. You don't know how your partner will react, and there is a chance leaving will put you in harm's way, making this step a bit scary. It is important to take the necessary steps to protect your safety, both before and after you leave the relationship, as you develop a plan for starting your new life.

At Work - Let the security staff in your building know about the situation. Provide a picture of your abuser so that they can keep him out of the office. You may also want to let your supervisor, manager, or HR advisor know of the situation so that they can help to protect you. Ask a coworker to escort you to your car or bus in case your abuser is waiting outside to confront you. You may want to ask for a change in work hours, and take different routes to work, so that your partner cannot find you there.

At Home - Let your landlord and your neighbors know that your partner no longer lives there, and that they should call police if they see him there. Living in the same residence you shared with your abuser is one of the most dangerous parts of leaving an abusive relationship. Change the locks right away, and install security features such as door and window alarms and surveillance cameras.

Personal Safety - Your safety may be in jeopardy not just at work and at home, but anywhere you go throughout the day. Prepare yourself with a canister of pepper spray, a stun gun, or a personal alarm. Consider self defense training to give you the confidence to stand up to your abuser. Do not be afraid to call the police if you feel threatened or in danger – remember, they are there to protect you. You don't have to go through this alone.

Legal Help - File for a protection order or restraining order so that your abuser cannot legally contact you. Keep a copy of the order with you at all times in case your abuser does confront you. Call the police right away if this happens, even if you feel relatively safe at the moment. If you have children, fight for sole custody of them, and then inform the school and other caregivers that you are the only one with permission to pick them up.

Statistically, domestic violence occurs in one out of six relationships. It is extremely likely that you, or someone you are close to, has been or will be subjected to domestic violence. Though this problem is often kept quiet, in cases of abuse it is critical to protect the personal safety of the abused, even for years after they leave the relationship. In fact, the most dangerous time for an abused women is after she leaves the relationship.

Moving into your first home is a very exciting time. You're done paying rent on a house you don't own and don't have to live with landlords who fail to fix the property as quickly as you'd like. Still, owning your own home does come with some important considerations. Not only will you be responsible for doing all of your own home maintenance from now on, it's also your responsibility to ensure that your home is as safe as possible. No longer can you rely on a landlord installing security features to protect their investment - it's your investment, now!

Nothing feels like being a grown-up quite like buying your first home, but the process involves a lot of work and stress. The work isn't done once the papers are signed and you get the keys - you'll still have plenty of home maintenance projects ahead of you. In your efforts to fix up your first place, don't overlook the need to improve your home security. Though it may not be as glamorous or exciting as painting the living room or installing a deck, these are essential upgrades that should be made by any new homeowner.

Security considerations even start before you get moved in and unpacked. Before you even move your possessions in, change the locks. You never know who could have a key to the old one. The moving process itself is essential to your security, because you don't want to give criminals too much information about who you are or what you have. If you have expensive electronics or other large and valuable possessions, make sure they're covered, either with moving pads or in cardboard boxes, so that they can't be seen coming into your home. If you're buying new electronics for your new house, don't put the boxes out by the trash. Your neighbors aren't the only ones paying attention to you on moving day; professional criminals may also be on the lookout.

Always consider the differences in security between your old home and the new one. You may have been used to living in a secure apartment building or one with a doorman. Though these aren't necessarily any safer than living in your own house, the change does require some adjustment. Your new home may pose unique security challenges that you're not used to. For example, if you have a pool, make sure that you install pool security alarms and instruct any children about pool safety.

As soon as you move in, make an effort to meet your new neighbors. Not only can this help you adjust to life in your new community, it's also an important move for home security. If your neighbors know you, they are more likely to keep an eye on your house and to do something if they see someone suspicious around your home.

When it comes to home security, the best thing to do when getting settled into your new home is to walk around it, inside and out, making a detailed security list. Do you need to replace aging windows that could be pried open by an intruder? Is there a dark corner by the back door that could benefit from outdoor lighting? Make sure that there are smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and check their batteries as soon as you move in. Now is also a great time to place fire extinguishers and emergency kits around the home.

Regardless of your home's layout, always add door and window alarms, especially on the ground floor. Though you might think that an older home that never had a whole house security system installed can't become any more secure, these stand-alone alarms are easy to install in an afternoon and will instantly improve the security of your new home.

When buying a house, whether it's your first home or you're looking for an upgrade, there are always dozens of things to think about. How many bedrooms and bathrooms does your family need? Do you like the layout of the living room? Is the backyard big enough? One of the most often overlooked characteristics of potential homes is the security, both of the surrounding neighborhood and of the home itself. This is one of the characteristics that is likely to impact your day-to-day lifestyle in the home, and it should certainly be taken into consideration before you make an offer to buy a house.

Above all, one of your top concerns when house shopping should be the safety of the neighborhood. Although crime can happen anywhere, there are clearly varying crime rates throughout the world. Look for somewhere you'll feel safe walking down the road or taking your kids to the neighborhood park, as this can alleviate some of the concern you'll feel for the safety of your house. Peruse local crime rates to find out just how safe the neighborhood is, and don't forget to stop by at least once after dark. When driving through the area, look for Neighborhood Watch signs, which indicate that your potential neighbors are security-minded.

Far too many people think that just because they don't have toddlers means that they can ignore security factors and "take care of themselves" in a dangerous neighborhood. Whether you have young kids at home or are on your own, security should still be a consideration. Security considerations aside, location is always one of the most important features when comparing real estate, as it will influence the "feel" of the area and the amenities within walking or driving range.

If you're looking for a home in a community that you don't already know well, look up the crime statistics before you get too far into the home buying process. If you find a "great" home in a neighborhood that does not seem to be safe, it's too good to be true. Do not compromise on this factor. Look for a home that has the features you want, at a price you can afford, in a neighborhood you'll feel comfortable living in.

Look through each home you're considering with an eye towards safety. Does it have an alarm system already in place? Of course, you can always install one later, or use stand-alone alarms and cameras to create your own system. Still, this should be factored into your home buying decisions, as the presence or lack of such security features will impact how safe you feel in the home. Also look for locks on the doors. A home should have a sturdy deadbolt that securely latches. If the home has more than a couple of bolts or locks on the door, this may be a red flag. The previous occupants could simply have been very security minded, or it could be a sign that the home was previously targeted by criminals, and it may indicate a need to re-evaluate the safety of the area.

Though most home shoppers do their homework, it's easy to get distracted by the breakfast nook, the rosebushes in the yard, or the paint color in the master bedroom, overlooking the most important aspect of any house: home security. Though you should certainly enter the home-buying process with a wish-list of essential amenities, don't let your "dream home" cloud your judgment about safety.

Should you get a guard dog? You may be noticing that many people, both in the city and in the country, keep guard dogs both as pets and as protection against home invasions. A guard dog can physically attack an intruder, or bark and growl until they turn away in favor of a more welcoming house to break into. At first glance, a guard dog may seem to be the perfect solution for a family that is looking into getting a pet and also wants to increase their home security. However, if you are considering this route, be sure to weigh the pros and cons before committing yourself to raising a dog.

One thing to understand about guard dogs is that they require specialized training. While many dog owners can handle basic obedience training, a true guard dog must be trained by a professional. Some even recommend sending your dog to a specialized kennel rather than keeping him at home during the training period. Having a guard dog means more than choosing a breed of dog known for being “guard dogs.” Your dog must be trained to exhibit the proper behavior towards you, towards friendly people, and towards those you want to keep off your property.

It is also important to realize the potential dangers of having a guard dog, especially if you have children or other pets. Today the news is filled with stories of pit bulls and other “mean” breeds who have escaped their yard and hurt a child or another animal. Many breeds known to be good guard dogs are not necessarily the type of dog that would be a good addition to your family. They could exhibit aggressive behaviors even towards their owners. Even the best-trained dog is not 100% tame, and this is something you must consider before buying a dog to protect your family.

Whether you are considering a guard dog or just a family pet, it is important to realize that raising a dog takes time and energy. Dogs need food, water, shelter, and exercise. If you leave for extended periods, your guard dog can't stay there to guard your house - he'll need to go to a kennel that will take care of him. Considering that many burglars wait until the family's vacation time to strike their home, this is a major downside of relying on guard dogs as home security.

If you're not sure if you're up to the challenge of keeping a guard dog, there are alternatives. Barking dog alarms have the recorded sound of a dog barking. These alarms, most of which work using motion detectors, will start “barking” when a criminal approaches. Virtually indistinguishable from the growl of a real guard dog, these effective devices require none of the care of a real guard dog, and with the same benefit. Another option is to place “caution: guard dog” signs around your property. Even if you don't have a dog, this is often enough to scare criminals away. Neither of these devices has a chance of biting you or a family member, yet any criminal will be worried that they will get bitten by the guard dog you don't have. This watchdog never sleeps, protecting your home 24-7.

Though dogs make great pets for many families, a good home security plan will protect your home and family in ways a dog simply can't. Dogs will not save someone who has fallen into the pool, like a swimming pool alarm. Nor can they sniff out carbon monoxide or fires, or let the authorities know that something has happened in the home. Although a dog can be a great companion, it is not the best home security system. If you're looking to maximize your home security, look towards devices designed for this purpose.

A home invasion is one of the scariest crimes. Not only can it result in serious financial loss, a home invasion can also leave you afraid to sleep and constantly hearing noises at night. Plus, home invasions can turn violent quickly, even if that wasn't the original intent of the thief. While it's always traumatizing to be robbed, it is far better for it to happen when no one is home to get hurt. Whether you rent or own your home, have kids or live alone, you should be prepared for this possibility.

If you want to survive a home invasion, there are two steps you absolutely must take before the break-in happens. First, protect your home. By far the best way to increase your odds of surviving a home invasion is to make it harder for the criminal to get in. Door and window alarms, motion detectors, and outdoor surveillance cameras are just some of the ways you can make your home unattractive to thieves.

Second, be prepared to protect your personal safety. Devices like stun guns and pepper spray are the perfect choice for those who do not feel comfortable keeping a handgun by their bed for personal protection. Know where your self defense product is at all times, and have experience using the device so that you'll be able to use it if you must.

If you have just heard a window break, or have come face-to-face with an intruder, what can you do? Here's how to get out of such a scary situation alive:

1) Do not confront the attacker or investigate strange noises. If they have not seen you yet, make sure they do not. Surprising a criminal can make them turn violent. Do not try to fight a criminal for your possessions – doing so is not worth the risk to your safety. Quietly hide in the furthest corner of the home until you know it's safe to come out, or leave the home if you are able. If you must engage with the criminal, listen to their demands and do not try to fight back unless your personal safety is being threatened.

2) Alert the authorities. If you suspect that someone has broken in, or is trying to break in, call 911 immediately. Do not investigate strange noises or try to handle the situation yourself. Even if you think you're strong enough to defeat a burglar, do not play the hero. 911 is your lifeline in a situation that could turn violent in seconds. If you have door or window alarms, activate them if it is safe for you to do so.

3) If you must confront an attacker, be ready. If you can get to your pepper spray or stun gun, have it out and ready to use. If not, find anything close to you that you can use to protect yourself. Always remember, do not approach the burglar - you should only fight back physically if they have seen you and your safety is being threatened.

4) Above all, stay calm. Focus on your breathing to avoid making rash decisions that could seriously harm you. If you have kids, remember that they will be looking towards you for guidance. If you can, gather them together so that you can act as a family. Try to keep your mind clear so that you can look for opportunities to get away or defend yourself.

Statistically, most home invasions happen when you are away during the day, because the thieves have more time to make off with your belongings without the risk of being caught. Still, you must be prepared for the possibility that someone could break in while you're sitting on the couch watching TV, or upstairs sound asleep. It can happen even in the safest neighborhoods.

Aspiring musicians and old-timers alike must consider their safety and security when playing. Though it's no fun to stop jamming to think about these things, it is a necessity. If you're more than an occasional musician, you probably have a fair amount of money invested in musical equipment. This alone poses a bit of a home security challenge. If it's fairly well-known that you are a musician, you can expect that area thieves know about your expensive equipment and instruments.

Always make sure that you have a safe place to keep your musical equipment, whether you use it nightly or don't have the time to play as much as you used to. Consider a specially equipped room in your home with motion detectors, surveillance cameras, and door alarms, especially if you have some high-end gear in there. If a robber was to break into your home, your expensive gear might even be a higher priority target than cash or jewelry.

Those who have musical equipment should be especially careful to record the models and serial numbers of everything they have. In the case of a flood, theft, or other emergency, this can help police track down your equipment or aid in its replacement by your insurance agency. Though every home or business owner should keep an accurate inventory of their most valuable possessions, this is especially true for those with specialized and very expensive equipment, no matter their industry.

While at home, pay attention to the signals you're sending. Consider whether your neighborhood is safe enough to play in your garage late at night. You may be advertising your expensive guitars, or perhaps worse yet, angering a neighbor who may have it in his mind to come after you. Plus, you might be throwing away boxes that are clearly marked with the names of fancy electronic equipment, or leaving your guitars near the open window where you like to play, in full view of passerby.

If gigs have you out late, think about the security challenges this might pose. As a musical professional, you might be playing at bars and clubs into the wee hours of the night. Even those who play at weddings and daytime events are at risk of having their equipment stolen en route to their home or storage space. If you routinely carry musical equipment in your vehicle, make sure you've read vehicle safety tips, especially those that are meant to help you avoid a carjacking or someone trying to break into your car. Take care not to load your car in a dark alley unless you have lots of help around - this is prime time for someone to walk off with an amp or a guitar.

If you do find yourself at lots of late-night gigs, be sure to prepare yourself so that you don't inadvertently wind up in a bar fight. Whether you're a bar patron or the entertainment, always carry pepper spray or similar devices to protect your safety, and of course always follow alcohol safety guidelines, whether playing on stage or enjoying a show.

It may seem shocking, but more than two thirds of all children will get lost at least once during their childhood years. According to one estimate, more than two thousands kids become lost just in the United States. Although most of these children are found in just a few minutes, it is always a possibility that they will never return. After all, we've all seen such cases of child abductions in the news. As a parent, this is one of the most frightening things that you can imagine happening to your kids. How to you keep them safe from a child abduction?

Every parent surely understands the fear that their child will get lost every time they step foot in a public place, whether it's a shopping mall or a grassy park. Even your well-behaved child has the natural curiosity to wander off the second you take your eyes off her. Turning your back to take a phone call, place your lunch order, or wave to a friend is enough time for a child to be lured away. Though you might be panicking at even the thought of this, your little one probably does not even realize the effect wandering off could have on you.

Although most cases of a child's disappearance in a public setting are tired to innocent distractions and wandering kids, news stories constantly remind us that this is not always true. If you are distracted, your lost child could become frightened, injured, or even abducted.

How can you prevent this? From the time your toddlers are old enough to walk, always remind them not to wander. They must also know what to do if they do accidentally lose you in the crowd. Though you've probably told them “don't talk to strangers” a thousand times, in this case talking to the right strangers, such as mall security, can actually reunite them with you faster. Teach your kids how to recognize police officers and store employees in case they need help finding you. They should also know your home address and phone number, in case they become separated for a longer period. These details should be attached in the label of their clothing if they are still too young to memorize them.

Regardless of where you are taking your children or who they are with, never assume that they are safe. In fact, most children who are abducted are taken by family members or acquaintances. Stranger abductions are actually quite rare, though they can happen anywhere, from a rural sidewalk to a crowded street. Kids outdoors without adult supervision are at an especially high risk of being taken.

Protecting your kids from child abduction requires not only the right information, but also the right tools. Consider a child alarm that sounds if your child wanders too far away from you. A personal alarm is another helpful device for keeping your child safe. One press of the alarm button and the loud alarm will sound, summoning the help of nearby adults. Personal alarms even come in child-friendly shapes like panda bears.

When it comes to home security, a lot of attention to paid to threats coming from outside the home. While it's certainly important to be aware of the threat posed by burglars and others who may try to break through your home security, it is also crucial to recognize that there are many different threats inside the home that can be far more dangerous than an intruder. Take, for example, the kitchen. You probably spend a fair amount of your time there, but when was the last time you consciously thought about the safety and security of this important area of your home?

The kitchen is one of the places you're most likely to head as soon as you get home from work, either to put away groceries or to start the evening meal. You may even have a table in the kitchen, spending several hours in there each night. Whether you're just putting food in the refrigerator or making a five-course meal, the kitchen can be a dangerous place. Luckily, by following a few general security tips, you can make this room safer for your entire family.

Every kitchen should have a fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location. Think about your own kitchen - do you have a fire extinguisher? Do you know where it is? Have you ever read the instructions on the canister? The biggest danger in a kitchen is the possibility of a fire, but few families are truly prepared for this danger. If a fire occurs in the kitchen, what would you do? Would you go through all of the cabinets searching for the fire extinguisher you think might be there, or will you know right where to go?

Besides fire extinguishers, your kitchen should also be prepared with carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, especially if your kitchen has an older stove. Both alarms are essential devices in any home, and can help your family get out alive if a fire or gas leak begins in the kitchen. These devices are required in homes in many cities, and for good reason. Statistics show that fires that begin in homes without smoke alarms are much more likely to result in the serious injury or death of the occupants.

Home safety doesn't just mean having the right tools at your disposal, but also behaving in a way that is less likely to be dangerous. When it comes to the kitchen, this means that young children should never be cooking on their own. Always supervise children in the kitchen, even if they know what they are doing.

Speaking of children, little ones can be in danger in the kitchen even if they aren't cooking. There is a reason why child proofing cabinet locks exist. Your kitchen may need them, depending on the age of your children. Kids can pull heavy items onto their heads or make themselves sick by eating food from the cupboards. There are locks designed for refrigerators as well as kitchen cabinets. Of course, this doesn't negate the need to watch kids closely anytime they are in the kitchen, even if they are just playing at your feet while you cook dinner.

Whether you're always out of town for business, or love to spend quality time on vacation, spending a large amount of your time away from home can pose some unique security challenges. It's one thing to prevent a break-in when the home is occupied every night; it's quite another when the house will be vacant for weeks on end. Statistics show that burglars prefer a home that is empty, because they can take their time and don't risk getting caught. Even better if they know you won't be returning for days! That is why it is so important to take the necessary steps to protect your home, even if you're eager to start your weekend or in a rush to make a cross-country meeting.

First, create a list of services that should be started or stopped when you leave. Call to have mail and newspaper delivery stopped while you're gone. One of the oldest tricks used by burglars is to check for a pile of mail in the box or newspapers on the porch, as both indicate that no one has been to the home in some time. It's equally important to have someone mowing your lawn or snowblowing your sidewalks, as neglecting these chores also indicates that no one is home.

Your home actually gives many clues to your activities. Besides looking at the condition of your lawn and the stack of mail, a savvy criminal will also watch your car. If you're gone for an extended period, ask a trusted neighbor to park in your driveway every few nights. A home that never has a car parked in front of it is one that looks empty.

Next, make sure that your home security system is ready to go. Though you should be making use of your alarms every day, if you haven't been, while you're traveling is certainly a good time to start. If your system includes timer-operated lighting, set it before you depart so that the home looks lived-in. If there are motion sensing alarms or other features of your security system, make sure they are turned on before you leave. If a burglar breaks in and there are no alarms blaring, he will feel comfortable spending a great deal of time emptying out your home of anything valuable.

Security systems aren't the only thing that can sound the alarm if something goes awry. When you leave, no matter how frequently you travel, always let trusted people know about it, especially your neighbors. If they see anything suspicious around your home, they will know to report it. If they don't know you are gone, they might assume that everything is okay.

Though home security should be a priority for everyone, it is especially important if you spend a lot of time away from home. Those who travel often need to be particularly careful about the message they are sending to potential burglars, and take the necessary steps to make their vacant home a less attractive target.

When it comes to keeping your home safe, how can you judge if those you see in the neighborhood are supposed to be there? Whether you have joined a Neighborhood Watch group and are tasked with keeping an eye on the community, or are just trying to watch out for the safety of your own home, it's important to catch suspicious behaviors so that you can report them to the police. It's not just someone spray painting graffiti on a fence or throwing a rock through a window that you have to worry about. Though you may think that you'd immediately be able to tell that something is wrong, this is not always the case. Here are a few ways to spot those who might be trying to blend in as they prepare to break in or commit a crime:

Someone going house to house, ringing door-bells. While there are lots of legitimate reasons to go door to door, there are some burglars who dress up as solicitors or repairmen as a ruse so that they don't look out of place on the porch. If they knock and get no answer, they can assume that the home is unoccupied. If any of the people walking through the neighborhood go to a back or side yard after ringing the doorbell, this is particularly suspect. 

Someone hanging around a home you know to be empty. Whether the owners are on vacation or have moved away, make a point to strike up a conversation with anyone who's around the home. Even if they are simply taking care of the home while the owners are away, you should make an effort to notice them. People hanging around an empty house may be a sign of a burglary in progress.

Anyone carrying anything large out of the home. Sure, it's possible that someone has purchased that TV from your neighbor, or that your neighbor is moving. It's also possible that they are stealing the TV. If you see anything valuable being carried away from a home, go see what's going on. This is especially true if it's after dark, because there are fewer legitimate reasons for carrying large items out of the home.

Look for people constantly coming or going from a particular house. Sure, they may just like to invite lots of friends over, but it may be the sign of a drug house or other vice activities. If you see someone who shows strange mental symptoms wandering around the neighborhood, they may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In both situations, it's best to call the police rather than approaching anyone yourself, as they may behave in unpredictable or irrational ways.

With all of the above situations, move cautiously and with common sense. Don't get in the middle of a violent confrontation or a burglary in progress – instead, call 911 and let the police deal with it. If you feel that you must approach them, or that the situation is not that dangerous, carry pepper spray or a stun gun. That way, if it does take a bad turn, you'll be prepared to defend your safety. While there could be a perfectly innocent explanation for any of these potentially suspicious behaviors, it's also possible that you have just stopped a crime in progress or kept one from occurring.

New parents about to bring home their bundle of joy surely realize that this time means a lot of change, not only in their lifestyle and routines but also in the home. Besides decorating the nursery to prepare for your little one's arrival, there are some crucial home tasks to prepare your house for the new baby. Though this is certainly a stressful time for you as a soon-to-be parent, these safety considerations must not be overlooked. After all, your baby's safety depends on it!

While not all of these steps must be taken as soon as you bring the baby home, you should at least start thinking about them. It will seem like no time at all before your baby starts crawling and walking all over the house. Here is a checklist for new parents to adjust their home security practices for the new baby:

1) Install baby locks on anything that could hurt your baby. This includes stove locks, door locks, toilet seat locks, and cabinet locks. Some new parents choose to block off the bathrooms and kitchen using baby gates so that they don't have to lock every cabinet.

2) Set up baby gates. Speaking of baby gates, these must also be used at the top and bottom of stairways. They can also be used to block off workrooms or other areas that may be dangerous for a toddler. In addition to baby gates, add extra security to dangerous areas by using motion detectors, swimming pool alarms, and similar home security devices.

3) Purchase covers for outlets and cords. Babies are very curious, and can get into danger in ways that might surprise their parents. Cover all electrical outlets with child-safe covers so that nothing can be poked into the sockets. Make sure that all electrical cords, as well as the cords to window blinds, are out of your baby's reach.

4) Check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Of course, every household should have these, baby or not, but when you bring a new baby home, you're bringing home someone who is entirely dependent on you to rescue them in an emergency. Such alarms give you as much time as possible to get everyone out safely. It is especially important to have such alarms near the nursery.

5) Use baby monitors. Today, more and more parents are using surveillance cameras rather than traditional baby monitors to monitor their baby's room. These cameras can transmit wirelessly, even to a laptop computer. As your child grows, they can be put to other uses, from watching siblings playing quietly together to keeping an eye on the nanny.

6) Install door and window alarms. Now that you have brought your baby home, you'll probably spend endless nights worrying about their safety. Of course, this doesn't stop once your little one reaches the toddler stage. No matter your child's age, make sure that their bedroom is equipped with door and window alarms. These can alert you to a child who is out of their room in the middle of the night, or to someone trying to get in.

Although baby-proofing is probably one of the least exciting preparations for new parents to make, it is certainly as important as, if not more important than, all of the other steps you'll take to get ready for your new baby.

Even when you do the best you can in the home security department, the unfortunate reality is that no home is complete immune to crime. Perhaps you have come home to find a window smashed, or your front door is hanging wide open when you're sure you locked it before you left. Such circumstances are frightening and distressing. Whether your natural reaction is fear or anger, you'll probably feel like making a move immediately. Still, it's important to be making the right moves to avoid putting your family in more danger. Here is how to deal with a home security crisis:

1) Assess immediate danger. If you're not sure if there is a burglar inside your home, but have reason to believe that someone has broken in, do not enter your home for any reason. You might feel like scaring them away or coming at them in anger, but you do not know if they are armed. Brazen thieves may be waiting inside, and you might add physical injury to your list of problems. Even if it looks like someone ransacked your home and left, they could still be hiding inside.

2) Move in a group. Regardless of the assessed danger level, always move together, rather than splitting up. Though you might be more likely to be spotted by a criminal if there are several of you rather than one person, there is safety in numbers and you're less likely to be involved in a violent confrontation with a burglar if there are other people with you. If any family member is carrying pepper spray, a stun gun, or any other self defense device, now is the time to get ready to use it.

3) Go to a safe spot. Leave the immediate area if the criminal may still be there. You don't want them to spot you on their way out. Go to a neighbor's house, or get back in your car, lock the doors, and drive down the street. Though you may feel like you need to stay close to keep an eye on what's going on, it's far more important to get your family out of harm's way. Then, call 911 from your safe spot. Do not do anything until you're sure your family is not in immediate danger.

4) Get police to your home. Once you know it's safe to do so, call 911 to request police assistance. Even if you're sure that the burglars are long gone, the police can take down a report and start their investigation. The quicker the police get to your home, the faster they can start looking for getaway cars and contacting pawn shops and other likely recipients of stolen goods.

5) Begin the damage assessment. Once police have cleared you to return to your home, start assessing the damages and compiling a list of stolen belongings. This list is important both for the police and for your homeowners or renter's insurance. If you have surveillance cameras, get the footage right away, especially if your system routinely tapes over old data.

Returning home to a home security threat is certainly a scary situation, no matter the circumstances. If you find yourself in such a crisis, the most important rule is to avoid an altercation with any criminal who may still be inside, and to maintain a safe distance until after the police have arrived.

Date rape drugs are drugs that are used to assist in a sexual assault by making the victim unable to fight back. They go by many names, such as Rohypnol, GHB, Ketamine, roofies, special K, and liquid ecstasy, but what's more important than knowing their names is learning how to protect yourself from them. Date rape drugs can be slipped into your drink without you even realizing it, and will make it virtually impossible to protect yourself as the assault is carried out.

When you're out drinking, never leave your drink unattended, even to visit the restroom, or accept a drink from a stranger. Though you might think you'd realize it if your drink was doctored, the most commonly used date rape drugs have no color, smell, or taste. You won't realize you've been drugged until it is too late. Even if you don't think you've given anyone the chance to slip something into your drink, pay attention to anything that seems unusual. Does your drink taste funny? If so, do not drink any more, and ask the bartender for a new drink. Some date rape drugs make a drink taste bitter or off, though other drugs have no flavor.

Do you feel extremely inebriated or disoriented after having only a small amount to drink? If so, stop drinking and go somewhere safe quickly with someone you know and trust. Learn to recognize the symptoms of being drugged with a date rape drug. These include relaxation or sleepiness, lowered heart rate and blood pressure, slurred speech, dizziness, and nausea. Some date rape drugs also interfere with memory retention, so that the victim has no memory of the assault.

Protecting yourself from such situations requires enlisting the help of friends and family. Arrange for a designated driver if you plan to drink, and always head out with a friend rather than by yourself. Before you leave, tell someone where you'll going and when you'll be back. Otherwise, it is possible that no one will realize something bad has happened to you if you don't come home on time.

Carry the right tools to keep yourself out of a dangerous situation. Of course, never leave home without your cell phone, which you can use to call a designated driver, a friend, or 911. It's also a great idea to carry pepper spray, a stun gun, a personal alarm, or a similar self defense device. There are mini styles designed to be carried in even the smallest handbag, and these devices are absolutely crucial if you find yourself in danger. Although date rape drugs can inhibit your ability to defend yourself, these tools are indispensable in a wide variety of dangerous situations.

Far too many people, both women and men, think that “it can't happen to me” when it comes to date rape drugs. The fact is, over a third of all women will fall victim to sexual assault during their lifetime, in addition to increasing numbers of men. The use of date rape drugs has gone up significantly over the last decade, though keeping your eyes open for any signs of trouble can go a long ways towards keeping you safe from such dangers.

Are you planning to install a pool in your backyard for some summertime fun? If so, there are a few important steps you must consider first. After all, having a body of water in your backyard is potentially dangerous, especially for small children. As the owner of a swimming pool, it is your job to keep it as safe as possible.

In many cities, fences of a certain height or type must surround all swimming pools. You may need to built a special pool enclosure or fence in your entire property. Some cities even place restrictions on the type of gate or lock used, to ensure that no children can get in accidentally. Find out the rules in your area before you begin pool installation; otherwise, you might commit to the pool only to later realize that you must upgrade your property to prevent your swimming pool from becoming a hazard.

Responsible pool owners can, and should, go beyond city rules in making their swimming pool as safe as possible. This begins with the gate. Keep it locked at all time, and install a gate alarm, which will sound if the gate is opened.

The pool itself must also be protected. While this is important if you have kids living at home, it is still necessary if the pool is meant to be enjoyed by adults only. Neighborhood children will quickly learn how to access your pool if you don't take steps to keep them out. Cover the pool with a hard cover during the offseason, it will protect the pool from falling children, not to mention leaves, bugs, and other debris.

A pool alarm is another essential safety feature. If someone does happen to gain access to the pool area, and falls or jumps into the water, this small alarm will alert you to the presence. It simply attaches to the pool sides, and must be disabled before you enter the water. A pool alarm can give you valuable seconds to get the child out of the pool without serious harm. Pool alarms are especially important in neighborhoods with lots of young children around, as they might not know better than to jump into an unattended pool.

If you do have children, or there are kids in the neighborhood, instruct them on pool usage before the pool is installed. Require the kids to ask your permission before entering the water so that you can be sure someone is outside to supervise them.

Even if there aren't kids using the pool routinely, keep flotation devices on hand for family members and guests. If weak swimmers want to enjoy your pool, these will come in handy. If your pool is particularly large or deep, keep lifeguarding floats on hand, just in case. Even strong swimmers who spend a long time in your pool can develop cramps and need assistance.

No matter what type of pool you are installing, above-ground or in-ground, diving or play, you must consider the safety of your family, guests, and neighbors. Making your pool less accessible to uninvited guests, particularly children, and making sure no one can use the pool without you knowing about it will go a long ways towards preventing pool accidents.

Every family should have an emergency plan. After all, you have home insurance, health insurance, and car insurance, but do you have a plan for what you would do in a major catastrophe? With terrorism and natural disasters in the news almost every day, now is the time to think about what your family would do in the event that you find yourselves in a major emergency.

Far too many families rely on emergency services to come to their rescue. You can't expect to be provided with immediate food, shelter, and medical attention in the aftermath of any large-scale disaster. Roads, utilities, and communication services may be down, and it is possible that help won't arrive for days. According to survival experts, households should have enough supplies to survive at least a week with no outside help. Though this seems like a lofty goal at first, it is actually not that hard to implement with careful planning.

In addition to the usual emergency supplies and stock of nonperishable food, your family also needs a plan of action. Where will you go in the aftermath of an emergency? What if you're not all at home when it happens? Here are the 6 most critical steps to take when making your emergency and disaster plan:

1. Call a family meeting. All of the family members should be involved in the creation of your emergency plan. Yes, even your kids! Including kids in the planning process makes it more likely that they will remember what to do in an emergency.

2. Keep the plan simple. You may feel more comfortable planning out every detail, but chances are good that in an emergency situation your brain will be in panic mode and you'll forget most of it. Instead, focus on a few main points such as what must be done as you exit, and where you should go. Your emergency plan should be adaptable for a variety of emergencies, from a fire in the kitchen to a major natural disaster.

3. Memorize important information. It is critical for all family members to know what phone numbers to call, including 911 as well as the cell phone numbers of all relatives, including a few relatives that don't live in the home in case you get separated from each other and must leave the area.

4. Choose a meeting place. It is important for your meeting location to be safely away from the home. For example, choose to meet a the neighbor's house, or at a park down the street. Don't meet right out the front door, as it may not be safe to do so. In the event of an emergency, all family members should stay at the meeting place until you've all been accounted for. 

5. Have an out-of-town plan. In addition to your local meeting spot, choose somewhere further away from the home, such as a relative who lives several miles away or even out of state, in case the entire neighborhood must be evacuated. Make sure that you all have the phone number to this location memorized so that you can find each other if you are separated.

6. Practice escape drills. This step is especially important if you have kids in the home, as you'll need everyone's help to get the family out safety. Become comfortable with the plan you've made so that you don't forget it in a  time of panic. Everyone must know all of the escapes from the home. This can also help you spot potential problems such as the need for a fire escape ladder for upstairs windows. At least twice per year, practice your drill to keep the information fresh in your mind. This step can also remind you to update your plan, if needed, to account for household changes.

Moving away to college is a huge step, and one that is often nerve-wracking both for parents and students. When the time comes to choose a college, you'll be looking at plenty of numbers, from GPA and SAT scores to the number of students attending the school. Although the crime rate might not be at the top of your mind when you're deciding which school to attend, maybe it should be. After all, you'll be living there for four years, and you should feel safe doing so.

For nearly two decades, the U.S. Department of Education has collected crime statistics from more than 6,000 colleges and universities nationwide. This annual report covers campus security policies and crime statistics related to the crimes happening on college campuses. This information is available through the Department of Education website and in published reports, where you can see data for any particular school, as well as combined data for all schools. For example, these statistics show that one in five women will become the victim of a sexual assault during her four years spent on campus. Overall, the staggering number of crimes committed on campus underscores the need for paying attention to campus safety.

The statistics gathered for each school include the rates of selected crimes, ranging from assault to vandalism, committed on the school campus each year. As you might expect, schools with the highest crime rates are those in large cities that themselves are known for high crime rates. Statistically, the safest colleges are located in smaller towns that have lower crime rates. 

Schools keep statistics for crimes that happen on the campus itself, as well as in areas bordering the university property. The crime statistics shown in this report are broken down by offense, including major crimes such as homicide, sex offenses, hate crimes, robbery, and assault. The crime statistics also show “incidents” such as liquor law violations, drug possession, or weapons possession, which may result in disciplinary action on campus rather than an arrest by the police. In addition to the overall crime rate at the school, these statistics also show to what extent alcohol may be a problem on the campus, as  the statistics show alcohol-related offenses such as DUI and minors in possession of alcohol.

So, what can you do with all of these campus crime statistics? Do they actually mean anything? You may be wondering if the time spent reading the crime report can actually make you or your son or daughter safer on the college campus. If you are concerned about safety on campus, certainly take into account the crime statistics when researching potential colleges.

However, it's also important to use your own common sense and prepare for the potential of crime. After all, as the statistics show, no college campus is 100% safe- and no city or town is, either. If you fall victim to a crime, you won't be comforted by statistics about how low the crime rate is. While college is an exciting time, it's also time to think about your safety. Carry non-lethal self defense products, such as a canister of pepper spray or a personal alarm, so that you can protect yourself and avoid becoming part of these statistics.