Always lock up ladders and tools. Don't give a burglar the resources to break into your home.
Window air conditioning units should be bolted to the wall to prevent them from being easily removed from the outside.
If you have recently purchased a television, stereo equipment, or other household item, do not throw the empty boxes in the alley garbage. This is a sure sign you just purchased new equipment and adds strong temptation for burglars.
Turn the ringer on the telephone down low. If a burglar is around, he won't be alerted to your absence by a ringing phone.
If you are out during the day or on vacation, use an automatic timer to turn on lights and a radio at different times of the day. It is an easy way to disguise the fact that you aren't home.
Have a trusted neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers every day while you are on vacation. Have a neighbor use your garbage cans occasionally. During the winter, arrange to have the snow shoveled.