Home Security and "the Economy"

Many people ask me if crime really increases when the economy worsens. According to various statistics provided by the DOJ (Department of Justice) do not have strong indications that crime actually increases when the economy is poor. However, economics and statistics are not always subjects that provide us with any clarity. When I talk with crime prevention units and police departments across the country, most all of them indicate that they see an increase in crime in poor economic conditions. There is no difference between small towns and large cities. Personally, I believe the economic indicator related to increases in crime is not the stock market but rather 'unemployment.' People have strong survival skills whether it be in a life threatening situation or providing for themselves or their families. Sometimes 'good people' do 'bad things'.

In previous blogs I have shared with you ways to help protect yourself. There are both common sense things and practical, simple, effective devices and products that can help you "be safe". In the spirit of always wanting to provide you with news and solutions here's a quick recap of some of these devices:

1. Door Jamb Armor (http://www.djarmor.com/). This site provides great solutions and products that help prevent doors from being penetrated. I have personally installed and tested this product, and it stands up to the test. The company is owned by Alan Young. Read Alan's story on his website - security "experts" are not always your criminal justice degreed, ex-FBI guys. The best experts are the ones that have been victims and then step up with innovated solutions! It's affordable and easy to install. It took me about 1 1/2 hours to put it on my front door.




2. 2. The Lock Jaw (http://www.lockjawsecurity.com/). This site has a single product that has won awards and been featured by national media such as HGTV, Mr. Gadget and others. It has several features but most of the notoriety has been with its ability to prevent "lock bumping". The Lock Jaw (http://www.thelockjaw.com/) also prevents the actual key from working so it complies with 'privacy laws'. One of the things that I personally like is that it keeps my toddlers from unlocking the deadbolt and getting outside without our knowing. It costs $20 and takes about 3 minutes to install, or you can use double-stick tape (soooooo it's portable), which takes about 30 seconds to install. Brett Fulford serves as one of the managing partners and the company's CEO. His background also provides a ton of credibility to a great product!


3. WiLife. This is a bit on the high side when compared to 'Door Jamb Armor' and 'The Lock Jaw'. This product is very unique and high-tech but its very simple to install. The product is a camera system of which views can be watched from anywhere you have Internet access. There are so many applications to where this can be beneficial. (http://www.wilife.com/)

Take a look at these sites and feel free to share the websites or this blog with your friends and families. The economy will recover...this is America and we've always prevailed. However, in the mean time we need to be diligent and smart about our own safety and security.

Be Safe!