Your family can't wait to get away for a long weekend at your special hideaway. That same seclusion, however, can increase the possibility of burglary.

Lakestyle interviewed security specialists to learn about the latest in security systems and products. A list of inexpensive, common-sense tips are also included to help you keep your property theft-free.

Advice from the experts

First,security need not be expensive. In fact,one type of deterrent from Intermatic, electro-mechanical timers, starts at about $5. The timers offer "random time features"- the ability to randomly change on-and-off times earlier or later than set, so that anyone casing the property would be more likely to think it was occupied.

"Security doesn't have to be a big investment," said Art Noparstak, of Intermatic. His company's digital timers range from about $14 to $16. They can be set to change on-off times every day of the week, for example, or be the same during the week and be different on the weekend.

Intermatic also makes wireless alarms, outdoor timers with photo-electric sensors that automatically turn lights on or off, landscape lighting and lamp posts with bulbs that screw into a photo-electric cell, automatically turning the light on at dusk.
One product that may have special appeal to cabin owners is a three-in-one power failure light. The handy model PR3C plugs into the wall as a nightlight for everyday use. But if the power goes out,its built-in rechargeable battery keeps the light lit. And in cases of power outages, owners can use the product as a rechargeable flashlight. Intermatic products can be purchased at Home Depot, Menards, many hardware stores and other retail outlets.

For cabin owners who want a more comprehensive system, Control Products' deluxe miniAlarm Security System (product MA-D) offers the features of a monitored system for thousands of dollars less. Owners can install the wireless motion,door and window sensors in minutes and never have to pay monthly fees. The one-time price is just $199.

Its sensors communicate with the control unit even through walls and between buildings. If the sensors are tripped,a 200-decibel siren sounds as does a message that you record. The system automatically dials up to four numbers of your choice.
Control Products also sells security decals and yard signs, and it ratchets up the fake-out with a $29.95, nonfunctional yet authentic-looking camera meant to stop potential burglars in their tracks. The camera is housed in weatherproof, anodized aluminum. Its adjustable angle, cable and LED give it the same appearance as an expensive, working security camera.

Other products, such as a three-in-one power-out light and door alarm,are also popular with Control Products' customers.
Having some type of deterrence definitely can prevent break-ins, said Control Products' Chuck Guerin. "Many times, people breaking into a cabin aren't looking to rob it. They may be looking for a warm place to party." If they see a security sign or camera,they'll most likely look for another venue.

"Anything you can do - whether it's a motion sensor, a light, a door alarm or a siren - can be effective," Guerin said. "I've seen statistics that 70 to 80 percent of potential burglars are scared away if a light turns on or a siren sounds."

Most Control Products offerings are sold at its Web site.

The following are additional tips* for keeping your property theft-free.

Environmental security:

• Install a gate at your driveway. Make it difficult to steal your belongings.
• Trim trees that allow access to doors and windows. Trim shrubbery that could conceal intruders. If you leave your power on, consider a timed-light, motion sensor or a security system.

Essential security:

• Choose doors of solid wood or steel with reinforced jambs and frames.
• Secure all doors with deadbolt locks and all windows with adequate locks.
• Cover all windows with shutters,blinds or drapes. Don't encourage theft with a display of your belongings.
• Leave extra keys for home and gate with trusted neighbors.Don't hide spare keys near your home.
• Keep all boats,recreation vehicles and other items securely locked and disabled,even when locked in an outbuilding or garage.
• Never leave firearms in your hunting cabin. They are easily sold and difficult to trace.
• Engrave belongings with your driver's license number. Record the make,model and serial number of your possessions. Keep the list in a separate location.

If you think you've been robbed:

• Don't go inside. Call the police from a safe location and wait for their arrival.
• Don't disturb anything in the area. Footprints and tire tracks could be useful in solving the crime.
• Have a neighbor or friend check the property often. Their frequent presence helps reduce your chances of theft.

*Reprinted with permission AAA-Chicago Motor Club ©2003

Quick Clicks

Control Products www.protectingyourhome.com
Intermatic www.intermatic.com
Burglary Prevention Council www.burglaryprevention.org 

By Barb Umberger