Write an article based on this "Lock external doors at all times. Lock your external windows and sliding glass doors. Use exterior lighting to ward off potential robbers. Don't leave notes on the door."
Whatever other home-security steps you may take will be of little use if a burglar can walk straight in through the front door. Many robbers only enter homes when they find that a door is unlocked, in fact; most burglaries simply happen due to doors and windows being left unlocked. To prevent this, lock all external doors (front, back and side) at all times, even when you're home or are going for a short walk around the block. If you have a balcony door, never leave it unlocked at night or when going out. Balconies could provide easy access to burglars. Garage doors provide access into your home, so treat them as any other door. Make sure they are locked properly, as well as the door that leads from the inside of the garage into your house. Ground level windows and sliding doors are easy to open from the outside, if they're left unlocked. If a thief finds that your front door is secured, they'll likely move on and try to enter your home through a window. Deter them by keeping windows locked at all times. If you're concerned about the security of your sliding glass door, drop a dowel or metal rod into the track on the inside. This will supplement the sliding door's lock (which is often weak). Well-lit entrances are an effective deterrent, as burglars will be looking for houses that they can enter with no likelihood of being seen. It will be harder for a thief to break in if there are lights placed at entry points to your house. Install lights near all exterior entrances. If you're concerned about your house being broken into while you're away overnight, install motion-activated floodlights in your front and back yards. Alternatively, you can set a timer on your indoor lighting to make your home appear occupied. Even if you're just working in your own back yard, notes left to delivery services, friends, or visitors will advertise the fact that you're not inside the house. Not only will thieves look on your porch for packages to steal, they'll likely be inclined to enter your home and look for items to burgle.