Wintertime is prime time for thieves and burglars looking for an easy target. It is recommended that homeowners take a few easy precautions to protect their home and property.

- Trimming the shrubbery and trees near windows and doors removes a hiding place for intruders.

- Replace burned-out bulbs in your outdoor light fixtures so dark areas are illuminated. Install outdoor lighting around your house.

- Keep garage doors locked.

- A peephole is great to install in your front door. It is easy to install and it enables you to see outside the door without opening it.

- A dog is a great deterrent against break-ins, but what if you don’t have one? That doesn’t matter, you can fake it. Buy one of those "Beware of Dog" signs from the hardware store and place them by the back door or any area that isn’t visible by a neighbor or the street.

- If you are going to be away from home, have someone get your mail and newspapers, or have them stopped temporarily.

By Staff reports GateHouse News Service