Free advice is usually worth what you pay for it. However, there are exceptions to the rule. 

Part of our Free Security Survey that we perform in businesses and homes around the Dallas / Fort Worth Metroplex is to offer recommendations on how to increase  security by making simple adjustments in daily activities. Many times there is not any cost beyond time and attention to these money saving and safety increasing tips. If I could rank the most essential recommendations I provide, my number one piece of security advice is simply: Lock your doors and windows. This is an ongoing effort that requires regular attention.

Daily homes and business are entered illegally from a door or window left open or unlocked. Being secure is a process, not a destination. It involves activity and participation.  

Here are a few quick reminders to help get you back on track.

• Everyone: Double check all doors and windows after a contractor or stranger has been through your home or facility. This is essential. Many service men and women are attentive, hard working and well-meaning individuals. But it is impossible to know for sure. It may have been an accident that a back door or window was left open - the consequences are the same either way. 
• Businesses: At a minimum, assign a shift manager at the shift change to check all doors and windows (as applicable) to ensure that everything that should be closed and locked is closed and locked. This simple strategy will save you untold fortunes that are currently walking out the back of your facility un-checked. Many times as I perform a security survey with a place of business we will discover a door that has been propped open or left unlocked, likely for the convenience of one worker, but in turn placed the entire facility at risk for theft or worse yet, violence. Train employees at all levels to be aware of the dangers of an unsecured building - ensure that all vulnerabilities are corrected and / or reported immediately without fail.
• Homes: When should you lock your doors? The answer will vary slightly, but ultimately whenever you are not using that door, keep it closed and locked. If you vent your windows to enjoy the weather, then secure the window with a thumb screw or brace to ensure that someone will not be able to free the window by reaching through the opening.
• Finally, there are only two times that I recommend you lock your car doors: When you are in it and when you are away from it. Simple... yes. Effective... most certainly.

At NTX Security we offer free security related information and suggestions to our community and our potential clients through our website, blog, news articles and our free onsite security evaluations. Please feel free to send this article to someone you care about or whom you feel could benefit this information.

We welcome your comments below.