The real gold in this guide, however, is the sheer wealth of information. For instance, I personally didn't know one lock from another (other than a deadbolt is better), and "Home Security" has a whole page full of illustrations with pros and cons of each type of lock and where they are best suited for in your home. It gets down to details such as shape of the lock's bolt, and how far into the doorjam it should go. "Home Security" also answered the simple question of which way should the door swing --in or out -- to provide the best security. (It's in.)

This book is a great way to get you started. The information is basic and shows you in which direction to go, and how to think about the most common ways thieves get in and take things. In fact, I am in the research stages of building my own house, and for others like me, this will prove invaluable, because we can build the security in as we go along instead of doing a "quick fix" to badly secured features later.

Subjects covered by the book, in no particular order, are:

Do a home inventory and a "security tour" to determine what you have and the weak spots in the home
Childproofing
Insurance
Alarm systems -- the biggest single section of the book
Securing windows and doors all over the home, including basement
Locks
Fences and lighting
Fire safety, including types fire extinguishers and smoke detectors
Apartment and condo dwellers
Securing special targets (guns, jewelry)
How to convert a regular closet to a security closet
How to get into the habit of security
Vacation security
Security when you are at home
Some thoughts on handicapped-accessible home design


Basics   January 2, 2002
 4 out of 14 found this review helpful

this is the pure basics... they cover everything... doors, windows, BACEMENTs... from locks to clocks and electronics its in here... a very good book... not like the USSR is invading secure but most of you arnt like me... when i liberary got this book (if anyone wants to buy it for me thats cool thanks LOL) i fliped after i read it... it was soooo good... i learned sooo much about my house that i had never thought of.. great book... not the best but all of the basics