Always lock your doors. Even if you are just leaving for a moment.

Whenever you move into a new home have all the locks changed. It is also a good idea to change your locks periodically.

Make sure entrances that are out of site, such as basement doors, have extra protection.

All doors frames should be sturdy and well constucted. All doors should be 1 3/4 inches thick and solid.

Double cylinder locks work the best. If a burglar breaks out a window next to your door, they still need a key to open it through the window. This also may force a burglar to exit the same way they came in, usually a broken window.

Install a lock collar, a metal ring that fits around the outside lock cylinder. It prevents housebreakers from yanking the whole lick cylinder out.

Two locks are better than one. Also make sure that they are at least 12 inches apart from each other. This will help reinforce the door in the attempt that someone tries to kick it in. Vertical deadbolts are stronger that horizontal deadbolts.

Use a chain lock with screws at least two inches long. The links in the chaing should be heavy and welded. The chain itself should be short enough that the door cannot be opened more than an inch or two.