Home Security: A Do It Yourself Guide

Want to make your home look occupied while you are gone? No problem. First, buy a lighted motion detector and install it inside the house. Second, get yourself a hyperkinetic Chihuahua. Burglars will think you're having a disco party with a flashing ball. Of course, Home Security: "A Do It Yourself Guide" does offer a handful of less extreme measures to ensure the safety of your family and valuables. The program shares tips and techniques for securing doors (get a deadbolt with a key lock on both sides) and windows (plenty of inexpensive latches are available), using outside and inside motion detectors, and creating security-wise landscaping (high hedges and fences offer privacy for both you and burglars). There are also suggestions for buying an alarm system, being safe in and around your car, and security on the streets. Though too brief to cover any of these topics in great depth, Home Security is a good introduction to the subject and has enough useful ideas to recommend it until something more comprehensive comes along. (R. Pitman)