Welcome Mar Vista Hilltop Neighbors!

BURGLARY IS MOSTLY A CRIME OF OPPORTUNITY.

PHYSICAL PROTECTION MEASURES

• Side and back entries are the most common access points for burglars.
• Install a good side-yard gate and keep it locked at all times. Key-pad and Combination locks are the most convenient. [This alone will stop 95% of burglars.]
• Reinforce glass doors and windows by installing 8 Mil security film to the inside of the glass. This also prevents glass from shattering in earthquakes.
• Install single cylinder dead-bolt locks on all exterior doors. Bolts should have a minimum throw of 1 inch. Strike plates should have screws  that are at least 3 inches long. Doors should be solid hardwood or metal clad. Hinges should be located on the inside or have non-removable pins.
• Special locks are needed on double doors.
• Install additional locking devices on all sliding glass doors and windows.
• Chain locks are only good for privacy, not security.
• Re-key or change all locks when moving into a new home.
• Install locks on gates, garages, sheds, etc.
• Plant bushes with thorns or prickly leaves near windows and along fences.
• Trim trees so that limbs don’t provide access to roofs, second stories, etc.

DETERRENT  MEASURES

• Attach Neighborhood Watch and/or Alarm Company stickers on or near entry doors and windows.
• Consider having a dog that can scare a stranger away by either barking or looking fierce.
• Consider Installing a Home Alarm System That Provides 24/7 Monitoring

SECURITY PROCEDURES

• Keep all doors and windows locked, even if you are just going out “for a minute.” If a window is left open a few inches for ventilation, pins or dowels should be inserted in the tracks to prevent someone from opening it more.
• Lock gates, garages, and sheds after each use. Store bicycles, mowers, etc. in a locked garage or shed.
• Don’t leave notes on your door when you are away from home.
• Don’t leave keys in mailboxes or planters, under doormats, or in other obvious hiding spots. Leave an extra key with a neighbor.
• •Don’t leave ladders outside and available to burglars who may use them to avoid alarm systems by entering 2nd story windows.
• Don’t leave your home keys on a chain with your vehicle keys when you use valet parking. Don’t leave your garage door opener where it is easily accessible. 

PROVIDING VISIBILITY

• Leave outside lights on after dark or have outside lights controlled by a motion sensor. Make  sure there are no dark areas around the house, garage, or yard in which a person could hide. Street lights are generally inadequate for illuminating your property.
• Check lights regularly and replace burnt out bulbs.
• Trim bushes to eliminate possible hiding places, especially near windows and sidewalks.
• Install a wide angle peephole in your front door so you can look out without being seen.
• Maintaining Your Property
• Keep property in good condition and free of trash, litter, weeds, leaves, graffiti, dismantled or  inoperative vehicles, and other things that indicate neglect in caring for your property.
• Repair / replace broken windows, screens, fences and gate locks.
• Use screens, wired glass, or other protection for light fixtures and bulbs.
• Remove loose rocks and other objects that could be used to vandalize or burglarize your property.