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Are you planning to build or remodel your home this year?

During the exciting time of having your house built or remodeled, make sure to consider one of the most important features that will keep you and your family safe for years to come: security.

According to the National Crime Prevention Council, about 6 out of 10 completed burglaries take place without any sign of forced entry. That means either a door or window was left unlocked or a duplicate key was used to open one.

Residential burglary is one of the most frequently reported crimes. It also is the most preventable. Locking your windows and doors and having proper lock security is the easiest and most cost-efficient way to prevent burglary.

The first step in securing your remodeled or newly built home is to deadbolt exterior doors. There are several different styles to chose from.

Sliding glass doors tend to be an easy point of entry. Special locks and bars are available to prevent lifting

and prying of the

door. You also can

put a wooden dowel

or broom handle in

the door track.

When thinking

lock security, don’t forget about your windows. Traditional double-hung windows, which have a top and bottom sash that slides up and down, continue to be the most popular window type installed in remodeled or newly built homes.

Keep these security strategies in mind as you build or remodel. Good quality locks on any home can prevent a burglary.