A home security/alarm system is the most effective way to safeguard your home, and there is a low to high price range depending on different features you may choose. Homes without security systems are three times more likely to be broken into.

All neighborhoods in Chula Vista should have an effective Neighborhood Watch/VEA Program in place. This is considered the second best way to protect your home as neighbors look out for neighbors. Contact the Chula Vista Office if you would like to get a program started for your neighborhood.

A barking dog (even a small dog) can be a deterrent to robbers who don't want to be noticed.

Open garage doors serve to advertise your belongings to passersby, which increases the likelihood of theft. Homeowners should make sure their garage door remains closed anytime they aren't present.

Light is a great deterrent for nighttime break-ins. Homeowners can easily and inexpensively install motion sensors on outdoor lights that turn on automatically if someone triggers them.

Noise helps prevent burglaries as well. Leave your stereo or TV on whenever you are gone so that would-be burglars think that someone is at home.

If you have workers who have had keys to your house and these people no longer work for you, change your locks.

Purchase inexpensive lighting timers for your house, and set them for different times to go on and off. Your timers can also be used to turn on your stereo or TV.

Install door pins to secure sliding doors. Wooden dowels can also be used to secure sliding doors.

Use shades or drapes to keep potentially tempting household items out of view. Robbery is a crime of opportunity and "window-shopping" is one way criminals choose potential targets.

Dumping boxes in front of your home from new purchases is showing a potential burglar what valuable items are now available at your home. Crush and wrap all boxes and place in your garbage container.

Sixty percent of all burglaries take place at ground floor doors and windows, and it is important that these are solid wood or metal doors. Adding a double dead-bolt lock makes it extra difficult for robbers to enter or depart with anything. Secure all ground floor windows with metal bars.

Always keep your doors locked when you are at home and away.

Remove flyers from your doorway. If you are gone, ask a neighbor to make sure your doorway is cleared.

Install a door bell with video that allows you to see and talk with someone at your home. Do not provide entry to anyone you do not know or expect.

Plant thorny bushes along walls and windows to make it difficult to access your home.

Install a strong and heavy safe that is bolted into the floor for storage of your important documents and precious items.

Don't announce your travel plans online or through social media.