First, the simplest step you can take to burglar-proof your home is to make sure to always lock your doors and windows when you are away from home. Even those people that would not normally rob a home can be tempted to do so when they find a door left unlocked.

To further help burglar-proof your home, you should do whatever you can to make the house appear occupied at all times. This means never leaving a note on your door stating that you are away. Similarly, you should always leave a light on in one or two rooms of the house. Even better, put a lamp or two on a timer. That way, it will give an even greater appearance of activity in the home.

The garage is another popular target of burglars and you will make it easy for a burglar to get in if you carelessly leave your garage door opener inside of an unlocked vehicle parked outside of the garage. If your garage is attached to your home, this simple mistake will also provide the burglar with easy access to your home.

If you will be away from your home for an extended period of time, such as going away on a business trip or on a vacation, be sure to leave your contact information with a friend you trust. That way, the friend can contact you if an emergency occurs. Also, ask the friend to collect your mail and newspapers while you are away. Otherwise, have delivery delayed until you return. Piled up mail and newspaper is a telltale sign that no one is home.

You also need to be aware that many burglars scope out a home for a period of time before they actually rob it. This allows the burglar time to gather information in order to improve his or her chances of getting away with the crime. One method burglars use is to actually call the homeowner ahead of time, posing as a solicitor or a survey conductor. Never answer personal questions if you receive one of these phone calls - it is just the burglar's way of trying to find out what you have in your home. Similarly, do not list your address in the phone book. This just makes it easier for a burglar to take advantage of you.