Outdoor Security
Don't stop your security awareness at the outside walls of your house. Your yard areas (if any) also deserve your attention. In general, don't leave anything around the yard that might help a burglar get into your house: ladders, stackable boxes or any garden tools should be put away, preferably in a locked cabinet.

• Install a light in your yard that is sensitive to movement. Place it high and out of reach.
  
  
• Trim hedges or bushes that are near doors or windows. These can be good hiding places.
  
  
• Don't place outdoor furniture tables nearby the house. These could become an easy stepladder to the roof.
  
  
• To discourage potential climbers, spread grease on any metal drainpipes. Use Vaseline or automotive grease, depending on the color of the pipe (or replace them with plastic pipe).