YOUR HOUSE: WINDOWS & DOORS

* All exterior doors should be solid-core doors with heavy-duty dead bolts installed in a sturdy frame with long screws so they can't be kicked open.

* Keeping your door open during the day may let in the sunlight ... and thieves! So install a storm door with a lock to keep sunlight in — and burglars out.

* Place security bars over your basement windows and around your home's removable AC units to prevent intruders from crawling inside.

* Apply window film to make your glass shatterproof; tinted film can further prevent thieves from window-shopping and even block out UV rays so furniture won't be damaged by the sun. Frosting over windows is also a good option. Also, assess your glass doors. Ideally, any glass doors in your home are double-paned, heavy-duty laminated glass; if not, consider replacing them, or install window film and metal security grills on the doors.

* A broken window is both an open invitation and a sign to intruders that other entry points may be just as neglected. Replace or repair windows as soon as possible.

* Use curtains or blinds over any windows or doors that are easy to see into.

* A peephole allows you to see who is at your door without having to open it and without them looking into your home.

* Keep a wooden dowel or stick in the track of sliding glass doors to prevent them from being opened from the outside if the lock is broken.

* Keep expensive equipment and items away from your windows.

* Make sure skylights and roof-access areas are properly secured with heavy-duty hardware.