Security Camera Laws in New York: What You Should Know

You may not think about it often, but surveillance cameras are everywhere these days. They're in your local convenience store, above the entryway of your apartment building, and even monitoring the entrance of your workplace. Cameras are so commonplace that some areas have even set up live streaming feeds on the internet for public viewing. However, this prevalence also means that there are a lot of regulations regarding their use. Depending on where you live, security cameras can come with a lot of strings attached. New York is one such state with strict laws governing surveillance camera usage and recording. If you plan to install security cameras at home or work, it’s important to understand what you can and cannot do under New York law. This will help you stay on the right side of the law and protect yourself from liability. In this post, we will explore the rules and regulations governing security cameras in New York. You can also learn how to secure your rights and protect yourself from potential security camera scams. Read on to learn more about security camera laws in New York and how they may affect you. New York Security Camera Laws: What You Need to Know New York security camera laws spell out a few important things. First, the law prohibits unauthorized recording. This means that you can’t secretly record other people using your security cameras. If you do record someone, the footage can only be used to protect your property or other legitimate interests. You can’t trick someone into recording themselves or secretly filming them in a private setting. You also can’t use the footage to defame the person you recorded. If you are recording someone, you must let them know that you’re recording them. You must also let them know that they are being recorded if you plan on using the footage for any other reason. Furthermore, you must notify people if you’ve recorded them. You can do this in one of two ways. You can post a notice in a visible location or send a written notice. The written notice should include the date, time, and place where the recording occurred. You’ll also want to make sure that any security cameras you install comply with voltage requirements. If a camera uses 120 volts of power, you’ll need a special permit from the state’s Public Service Commission. Installing Security Cameras in NY: Is Written Consent Required? While installing security cameras can be a helpful way to protect your home or business, you may need to get written consent before doing so. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires that you get written consent before installing any type of security camera if it uses a wireless signal. This includes both indoor and outdoor security cameras. Security cameras that don’t use a wireless signal, such as a corded one, don’t require consent. But they may still be prohibited in your location, such as at your place of work. Depending on the type of security camera you have and its location, you may need to get written consent from your landlord or property manager, your tenant association, or the homeowner’s association for your neighborhood. If you install cameras on public property, you won’t need consent. However, if you install cameras on private property, written consent from the property owner is required. In addition, installing cameras on someone’s private property without consent may be considered unlawful surveillance. If you plan on installing cameras on private property, make sure to get the consent of the property owner. If you fail to get consent, you risk running afoul of the law. While you can ask a homeowner for consent, it may be best to simply inform them that you’ve installed cameras on their property. Recording With Surveillance Cameras in NY: What’s Allowed? As per New York security camera laws, you can record anything visible to the public from a location where you have a legal right to be. For example, if the sidewalk in front of your store leads to a public sidewalk, you can legally record that sidewalk with your security cameras. As long as you’re recording public spaces, you can record pretty much anything you want within that public space. This includes vehicles, pedestrians, and other people using public sidewalks and pathways. You can also record public parks and other public spaces where people have no reasonable expectation of privacy. Be sure to get permission before recording a private conversation if you intend to use it for any purpose other than documentation. If you are concerned about your privacy, you can take steps to protect yourself. You can change your phone settings so that your phone does not broadcast your location. You can also turn off your cellular data if you are concerned about being tracked via your phone. You can protect your computer by installing anti-virus software, updating your operating system, and using a VPN. You can also delete sensitive information from your computer to protect against hardware hacking. Recording With Surveillance Cameras in NY: What’s Not Allowed? You can’t use your security cameras to record people who have a reasonable expectation of privacy. For example, you would not be allowed to record people in their own homes or on their private property. You also have to be careful about the things you record within public view. You can’t record activities that people have a right to keep private. Things like medical information, sensitive financial information, and discussion of confidential business matters are all protected by the law. Recording people without their knowledge can have legal repercussions. If you’re using security cameras to record employees at work, you must have their consent. This means you can’t record doctors in hospitals, lawyers in law firms, or other people who have a legal right to privacy in their workplaces. And if you have recording equipment in public places where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy, you must blur out their faces or turn off the recording when they enter the space. This includes people inside their homes, people inside places of business that don’t have signs posted, and people inside cars, porches, or other private areas. If you record people in these places, you may be violating New York security camera laws. You should also avoid recording people in other places that are shielded from public view. For example, you cannot record people inside their homes through a window. Conclusion Installing security cameras can be a helpful way to protect your home or business. However, you must comply with New York security camera laws. The law prohibits unauthorized recording, requires written consent before installing security cameras on private property, and places restrictions on where you can record. Once you understand these rules, you can install security cameras in New York with confidence. When you’re shopping for cameras, look for high-quality resolution, a wide-angle lens, and IR LEDs. IR LEDs provide night vision, so your cameras can record at any time of day. A wide-angle lens lets you capture a large view of your property so you can see everything at once. High-resolution cameras let you zoom in on important details when needed. Finally, look for an easy setup and installation process. Many security cameras are now plug and play, eliminating the need for technical know-how. Once you’ve installed your cameras, test their capabilities and make sure they have the range and resolution you need.

Tips To Keep Your Alarm in Shape: Alarm Station Care Guide

Keeping an alarm station in top shape requires regular maintenance and attention. Alarm stations are meant to be used, but they won’t last very long if they’re not properly maintained. This can be a bit of a challenge, especially for large groups with multiple alarm stations. However, it’s important to maintain your alarm station. Doing so ensures that it will last as long as possible and that you’ll have it when you need it. You can maintain your alarm station by doing things like keeping it clean, updating its batteries, and keeping track of it. These small details can often mean the difference between a functioning alarm system and one that is unreliable or broken. While these tips will help keep your alarm system working optimally, they aren’t exhaustive. If you are looking to purchase a new alarm, read our blog post on choosing the best security system for your home. To keep any piece of equipment running smoothly, it needs routine care and maintenance to stay in top shape. That’s just as true for an alarm station as it is for everything else in your home. Whether you have a standalone panel or one that is part of a larger security system, keeping your alarm in tip-top shape means implementing these simple tips to reduce the risk of failure or damage due to neglect. Change the Batteries The most basic yet often overlooked maintenance task is changing the batteries in your alarm station. When the battery dies, your alarm loses power, and it won’t work. But batteries die slowly, so they can often go unnoticed until the last minute, which is bad because it gives you very little time to have the problem fixed. A better approach is to set a schedule for testing your alarm’s battery. You can use the same schedule that you use for testing your fire alarms, which will help keep you on top of it. If you are using wireless sensors, you also need to test the batteries in those. Don’t wait for the batteries in your alarm system to start dying before you replace them. It’s a good idea to keep a backup set of batteries on hand and start using them a few months before the current set dies. That way, you won’t be left without an alarm in the event of a power outage. Replacing the batteries in your alarm system a few months before they die will also help you keep track of when it’s time to order new batteries. And don’t wait until the batteries are completely dead before replacing them; that can damage the unit. Clean the Window Sensor One of the most critical components in any alarm system is the window sensor. Not only does it keep your home or office secure by detecting unwanted entry, but in the event of a break-in, it also lets you know that a window has been opened, so you can be on the lookout for an intruder or keep your kids or pets from wandering out of the house. Window sensors come in a variety of styles and prices, but it’s important to find one that fits your needs and your home or office as best as possible. A broken window sensor can be enough to cause the entire alarm system to go off. To make sure it is working as it should, you need to clean it now and again. You can do this by spraying it with a cleaning solution and wiping it down with a clean rag. You also need to make sure it is mounted correctly. If the mounting tabs are broken, they need to be replaced immediately. The same goes if the mounting holes are worn out. Check the Tabs and Wiring All components in a security system should be installed correctly. That includes wiring and mounting tabs. If you notice that a wire is broken or frayed, it must be replaced immediately. If there is any discoloration or heat emitted from a wire, it must be replaced immediately. If a wire is not working or is broken, it must be replaced right away. Electrical wires are very important pieces of your home, and if one breaks, it could cause a very serious electrical issue in your home. If you see that any electrical wires in your home are broken or not working, you must have them replaced immediately. Electrical wires are not something you can just go and fix yourself. If you have noticed that any electrical wires in your home are broken, you must have them replaced immediately. Mounting tabs are another area that can go wrong. If a mounting tab breaks, the sensor must be replaced before it falls off the wall and causes even more problems. The same goes for wiring that is loose or falling out of a wall. It needs to be fixed before it causes a short or falls out completely. Test the Siren The siren is one of the most important components of the alarm system. It is the first line of defense against intruders. It must sound loud and clear, even in the farthest corners of your property. Most models come with an adjustable volume button, so you can set it to the desired level. Some of these devices also have a two-tone option. This comes in handy if you want to use one siren for outdoor security and another one for indoor security. The outdoor siren should be loud but not too loud. It must be audible from a distance. However, you must make sure that the indoor siren is not audible outside your home. It is what tells people there is an emergency that needs to be fixed. That is why it is important to test it regularly. You don’t have to do it every day, but you should do it once every few months. You can test the siren by pressing the button on the alarm or turning it off and on again. If the siren does not go off, the button is most likely jammed. You will need to open the panel and clean it out. Other Maintenance Tasks There are a few other maintenance tasks that will help keep your system in tip-top shape. These include keeping the area around the alarm clean and unobstructed. It’s also important to test the alarm regularly to make sure it’s working correctly. And last but not least, make sure everyone in the household knows how to use the alarm in the event of an emergency. An alarm system is only as good as its users, so make sure everyone is trained on how to use the system. If you have young children or teenagers in the home, make sure they know how to use the alarm as well. That includes the wall it is mounted on and any cables that connect it to the rest of the system. You also need to keep the panel clean and free from dust. Finally, you should keep the alarm up to date. This means changing the contract as well as upgrading any hardware as needed to make sure it is running optimally. Conclusion Keeping an alarm station in tip-top shape requires regular maintenance and attention. If you’re not sure what to look for or how to take care of your alarm system, you can always ask the manufacturer or hire a professional to help you out. You can also read up on how to maintain your alarm system and stay up to date on the best practices for keeping it in good shape. The most basic task you can do is change the batteries. You also need to clean the window sensor and check the tabs. You also need to test the siren and all wiring. You also need to keep the area near the alarm clean and free of dust. You also need to keep the alarm up to date with new contracts as well as new hardware.

A Quick Guide To Badge Entry Systems: How Do They Work?

Employees, inventory, and property can be secured and accessed through keycard entry systems. A few examples include corporate offices, healthcare facilities, retailers, fitness centers, warehouses, and more. Controlling, restricting, and managing unauthorized entry can also be accomplished with this technology, which can also be used to monitor employee activities and sign-in/out times, eliminate lost or stolen keys, and operate on energy-saving technologies. They provide a variety of advantages with regard to costs, security, and operations, similar to what you might find in a hotel room or other areas requiring personalized entry points. Badge Entry Systems: How Do They Work? An electronic device can read swipe, magnetic, or ID cards attached to special key cards or key fobs. The magstripe or chip on the keycard reads the card when an employee swipes, taps, or inserts it, granting access based on a unique code. The card reader quickly unlocks the specified door or entryway after accepting the authorized access credential. The keycards are also responsible for controlling, restricting, and monitoring hallways, elevators, stairwells, and other specialized areas via internal software. The badge entry system provides comprehensive facility surveys, assessments, personalized strategies, and solutions when implementing access control systems. A compliance measure includes meeting all fire codes and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations. Besides installing, these professionals test and train before activating, ensuring everything works properly. Keycard entry systems have several advantages Access levels can be personalized by keycard technology, safety audits can be conducted, employee activity logs can be managed, and smart technologies and energy efficiency controls can be implemented. Aside from being efficient and easy to use, these devices facilitate internal and external security measures. A lost or stolen key, for example, is one of the most time-consuming and cumbersome challenges. The card can also be wiped and deprogrammed if an employee's keycard is not returned upon resignation or termination. Placement of access points is also important. Keycards should be easily scanned or swiped for indoor use by employees or guests. It is essential to ensure readers are built and mounted to withstand extreme weather and other harsh conditions when placing them outdoors. A keycard entry system will provide peace of mind regarding the safety and security of your employees, inventory, and property at your commercial facility. As well as keeping intruders and unescorted guests out of specified areas, such as hotels, fitness centers, and private facilities that are restricted to members, these devices ensure privacy and security. A keycard access system can also implement a lockdown during emergencies in areas such as warehouses, parking lots, and garages that pose a constant threat of theft, vandalism, and intruders. Access control types for Badge entry system Several heavily regulated agencies and organizations use keycards to maintain specific employee access levels. It is possible for companies to be responsible for sensitive files and confidential information, including law firms, accounting firms, technology companies, and many others. A high level of security clearance and authorization might also be required for these types of settings. In addition, biometric readers, retinal scanners, and facial recognition may be utilized. Temporary employees, contractors, clients, and other non-employees can access the system on different levels. An example would be a short-term project crew or service and delivery personnel. Keycard readers can be divided into the following types: Radio Frequency Identification Cards (RFID) An RFID keycard or keyfob transmits authentication and authorization signals via user identity, which is the most commonly used type within commercial spaces. It is important not to confuse these with NFC (near-field communication) cards that use RFID technology to transmit and receive information instantly over short distances. Smart Cards The ID software on smart cards is more sophisticated than that of RFID cards, which use RFID technology. In high clearance areas, such as banks, governments, and military agencies, smart cards can read data from long distances because of their advanced encryption and mutual authentication. Proximity Cards In areas where authorization levels are low, proximity cards are suitable. The RFID technology used in these cards, also called prox cards, is used for access control. However, they may be less secure and encrypted than other options, making them a less expensive alternative. Wiegand Cards These were developed with a Wiegand sensor and a specialized communication system named after American inventor John Wiegand. As a result of their strong encryption and security, these are also used for access control by organizations. Despite Wiegand cards still being in use, more modern RFID technologies have replaced them in a big way. Magnetic Stripe Cards Similar to debit or credit cards, they transmit data using magnetic readers. In addition to transferring data sets, the reverse side of this card has a black "stripe" that reveals the cardholder's credentials. It is still possible to alter these cards easily or inadvertently, even though they are considered to be higher security than the aforementioned Wiegand cards. Maintaining Activity Monitoring & Management A keycard technology feature is the ability to keep track of employee activity in real-time. If additional information is needed for an internal personnel issue or investigation, this can be helpful. As a security technology, keycards can assist law enforcement by detecting potential insider threats when combined with closed-circuit television cameras and video analytics. Safety audits should be conducted on trackable keycard systems. It is possible to view specific timestamps and locations based on your reader's type and systems integrations, ensuring that employees are adhering to work hours and lunch breaks. Integrated keycard entry systems may also be used to monitor and measure occupancy and people counts as well as crowd control via business activity analytics. Benefits and Integrations of Smart Technologies Integrated keycards can be used in conjunction with a building's existing security management system and smart features. It is easy to program your system through a mobile app when you aren't on-site when you work with a service provider. You can automate lights, thermostats, locks, doorbell cameras, security, and other aspects of your commercial property with smart settings and real-time alerts. In addition to controlling and monitoring interior temperatures and appliance safety, this is especially helpful for industries receiving and accepting deliveries. Keycard Configuration & Activation Keycards are unique to each user, unlike traditional keys. In the event that it is lost, stolen, or an employee leaves a company, it can be deactivated or wiped. Changing locks and keys will never be an issue, nor will unauthorized copies be distributed. If an employee forgets or refuses to release their keycard upon leaving, it may be helpful to have this feature in place. Eliminate duplication The mitigation of possible duplicate badge numbers is another advantage of a global badge entry system. You cannot have duplicate badge numbers when your company uses a single access control system across all buildings and regions. When employees travel, they don't have to create new badge numbers. This avoids confusion and time lost. The employee of another building will need to obtain a completely new badge number if their badge number is accidentally the same as one of the employees at the other location. By assigning a completely new badge number, your system administrator will have to effectively onboard a current employee instead of simply adding building access to one badge number. A global badge system reduces administration time and eliminates confusion between badge numbers that are duplicated. Conclusion Due to the fact that badge entry systems combine identification and credentials, they are popular among residential, commercial, and industrial properties. With badge systems, you can easily replace traditional locks and keys with modern key cards and key fobs. Although the system has some shortcomings, it still relies on a finicky, easily lost, and damage-prone ID card credential. Physical credentials are no longer required with today's smartphone-based access control systems. Tenants have access to their buildings without compromising security with a mobile access control system.

Best Office Wear Outfits To Look Stylish And Professional

It is necessary to look and feel confident at your workplace, and the right choice of outfit will ensure just that. Working professionals don't have time—or often inclination—to think about what they'll wear daily. There was a time when saying you had "nothing to wear" was a bit of an exaggeration, but in recent years it has become more of a common complaint. Your wardrobe probably wasn't completely bare; you probably just didn't feel like getting dressed. We don't pass judgment, so please don't feel bad. Working women probably have several work staples they put on every single day. However, there are often basics like tailored trousers, white shirts, and colored blouses with accents like cardigans and neck scarves that allow them to add variety while keeping it simple. What are the experts saying? According to a poll conducted in February by LinkedIn, 47% of women and non-binary people who work full-time in the United States are looking forward to dressing professionally again, and 37% of those people are now in the process of purchasing a new work wardrobe. Here's the good news: in 2022, you won't have to choose between comfort and style when it comes to what you wear to the job. Continue reading on for some great advice on how to dress for work, whether you're a fresher to the workforce or just want to step up your game. 1. Try different colors Color is what makes the world go round. In fashion, it is what makes things interesting and unique. However, when you go to work, you'll notice that hardly anyone wears bright colors. People don't want to stand out in the office environment. However, be naturally confident, you can wear color without being too self-conscious about it. Darker hues, including navy blue and grey, might help you achieve a more subdued appearance. The colors you wear might also be necessary, depending on your profession. For example, if you work in a field where you must wear a uniform, try selecting a color that you feel most confident in. Nail polish, rings, and other accessories can be used to add color to an otherwise neutral outfit. If you have tattoos, consider wearing clothing that can cover them up at work. And, finally, if you're trying to impress clients or colleagues, you may want to choose a suit or other pieces you wouldn't wear every day. 2. Pair black with white Whether you're wearing a pantsuit or a dress, you can make an outfit more attractive with this classic color combination. It works exceptionally well with patterns because black and white are the base colors of most designs. Mixing and matching black and white together allows you to create outfits that look even more stylish than they would have if they were just one color. Black and white are also great colors to use in the fall because they go with everything. Another wardrobe office staple is black jeans, a white t-shirt, and a black blazer. Black and white clothing can be worn year-round, but it's beneficial during the fall. This can be done with several pieces such as tights, shirts, and blouses. You can also do it with accessories like belts, shoes, and bags. Using these two colors together will help you create a lot of different outfits while still keeping things simple. You can carry this look on a casual office day like on Fridays. 3. Invest in quality fabrics and well-made items The timeless black blazer is always a safe bet. It is a wardrobe staple that will get you through any occasion. A black blazer will always look sleek and professional. However, the quality of the blazer will make a huge difference. Make sure you invest in a blazer of excellent quality. If you can, buy one that is made out of wool. This is a fabric that is appropriate for any season, and it is also incredibly versatile. From formal to casual, a black blazer can be worn to fit any setting! Black is also a slimming color, making you look more put together and professional. As black is a neutral shade, you can easily pair a black blazer with various colors and patterns. You can mix and match from a solid shirt to an Oxford pattern easily. Black is very versatile, and you can wear it year-round. Where possible, it's best to invest in a black blazer rather than a suit jacket. 4. Statement Pants There's no rule that says office attire has to be uninteresting. Wear a tailored pair of pants with a quirky design to work to inject your individuality. You can decide if you want to dress this up with a jacket, trench coat, or cardigan over a tank top for a meeting of the whole staff or dress it down with great pair of shoes for a casual Friday. 5. Keep your basics in the office If you have a few work staples, such as a black pencil skirt and a white blouse, keep them in your desk or locker at work. This will allow you to change your look without having to leave the building and spend any money. You can easily make a new outfit out of these items by simply adding a new piece of jewelry or scarf. This also allows you to change your outfit whenever you feel like it without worrying too much about impressing your boss. 6. Show some skin If you'd rather not expose too much flesh, don't worry. However, if you're feeling insecure about your outfit and want to feel more confident, adding a little skin can help. This doesn't necessarily mean you have to bear your midriff or anything. You can simply add a cardigan or blazer that shows off your shoulders. This little touch will help make you feel more confident in your outfit and will also make you look more professional. 7. The little black dress A black dress is a staple for a reason and is a perfect addition to your office wear outfits. Black is a versatile color that may be worn as a dress or as a tunic with one of your favorite pairs of jeans or leggings. Black is a timeless hue that never goes out of style. The upkeep and sanitization are child's play as well. A little black dress is an excellent addition to any office wear wardrobe. 8. Mix and match your prints If you like wearing patterns and prints, don't be afraid to mix and match them. However, ensure you match them correctly and don't get them too matchy-matchy. If you have three pieces of patterned clothing, you can create three completely different outfits by pairing them with other items. This also helps you avoid looking like you're wearing your pajamas to the office. 9. Jumpsuits To be frank, many times, we don't have time to ponder (much less plan your clothes), and a fine jumpsuit is one of the greatest alternatives for those situations. You can make a bold fashion statement with minimal effort by just adding a belt or a pair of heels to this versatile garment. 10. Stylish pants, blouse, and flats During Zoom meetings, we were welcomed dressed formally from the waist up while being casual on the bottom; this may be adapted for our return to the workplace. Back at the office? Ease into business casual with a blouse that makes a statement. It's that little something extra you've been wanting, and it rounds out an excellent getup for a night out on the town after work. Wrapping up If you're a regular person wondering, "What should I wear to the office in a post-pandemic world?" while staring blankly into an open closet, you're not alone. Do not feel isolated. Eventually, you want to ensure that you put your best foot forward when you go to work. You also want to ensure you are comfortable in your work clothes. Remember that you are an individual and must dress for your personality. Consequently, if you feel confident and comfortable in your outfit, that is all that matters. Make sure you are not afraid to experiment and try something new when picking out your outfits. If you are not confident in your outfit, try to change something about it until you feel comfortable and like yourself again. Continue reading our blog on WomenWire.com for more information and updates on fashion, travel, beauty, entertainment, and more.

What You Should Do After a Burglary: The Right Steps

A burglary is a traumatic event for anyone that experiences it. It can leave you feeling unsafe in your own home and throw your life into a tailspin. However, after the initial shock and panic wear off, there are things you can do to help yourself recover from this invidious crime and regain some control over your life again. You may feel like the world is crashing down on you after a burglary. Your home might feel like a stranger now that someone has broken into it and stolen your possessions. You might even fear going back there now that burglars know exactly where to find you again. All of these anxieties are natural after such an ordeal, but the sooner you take action, the faster you’ll be able to regain control of your life once again. If you’re feeling anxious, don’t be shy about seeking professional help. Talking to a counselor or therapist can be an incredibly helpful way to process your feelings and come to a deeper understanding of what’s going on inside of you. If you’re feeling depressed, don’t be afraid to seek out medication. Many people have negative thoughts when they’re depressed, but talking to a counselor won’t help if you have clinical levels of anxiety. Change the locks One of the first things you should do after a burglary is to change the locks on your home. If the thieves used a key to gain entry, you’ll need to change the locks immediately to prevent them from simply breaking in again. If you think the door might have been left unlocked, check to make sure all the windows have secure latches and that valuables are out of sight. It’s also important to secure your valuables when you’re away from home. Leaving a laptop or expensive jewelry out in the open is an open invitation to thieves. Installing a security system is one of the best ways to protect your home from thieves. Even if you have a security system, it’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit in case someone breaks in. This kit should include things like a first aid kit, water, nonperishable food, flashlights, and a phone that doesn’t require electricity. If the thieves used a crowbar to pry their way in, you’ll still want to change the locks as they may have left marks or scratches on the door that could help police identify how they broke in. Where possible, opt for high-security locks, such as those with a double cylinder pin system. Make sure you check your state and local laws before getting new locks installed since some of them may require a permit. Report the burglary to the police Another important step to take after a burglary is to report the incident to the police. Even if there are no witnesses and they don’t expect to find the burglar, it will help you feel as though you’re doing something constructive to fight against crime after the burglary. When you report the burglary to the police, you’ll have to fill out an incident report. Make sure to keep a copy of this report, as it is a crucial piece of evidence if you decide to receive compensation for the stolen property. The police can also issue a receipt for the items that you do decide to have returned, which is another helpful piece of evidence. Additionally, you can request that the police collect a DNA sample from the stolen property as well. These reports are often the first thing investigators look at when they’re trying to solve a crime, so it’s extremely important to get it right. Make sure to include as many details as possible, such as the exact time of the incident, a description of the burglar(s), the make and model of any vehicles they left in the driveway, and any other information you can recall about the incident. Take photos of your belongings and check for the insurance deductible After a burglary, it’s common to feel like there’s nothing left to salvage in your home. However, you should still take photos of all of your items before they’re thrown away so you can prove what was stolen in the event of an insurance claim. Taking photos will also allow you to visually see that these items were stolen, even though they’re no longer in your home. Depending on the value of your stolen items, you may be able to claim a deductible reduction. Many insurers reduce the deductible if you have home security devices installed, like alarms or surveillance systems. Make sure to check your policy before you get these devices installed, though, as many insurers will only reduce the deductible if you have a certain level of coverage. Make sure to keep a copy of this report, as it is a crucial piece of evidence if you decide to receive compensation for the stolen property. The police can also issue a receipt for the items that you do decide to have returned, which is another helpful piece of evidence. Additionally, you can request that the police collect a DNA sample from the stolen property as well. Exit interviews and home security measures If you were robbed by a stranger, you might be asked to attend an “exit interview” with investigators. This interview is a recorded conversation where you talk about the details of the burglary and what you know about the burglar. You’ll be asked to recount your daily routine and where you keep your valuables, which may seem strange and invasive, but investigators must know this information. You may also be asked to change the habits you have in your daily routine, such as closing and locking your windows and doors. Even if you keep them locked up, they’re still in plain sight and could be easily visible to anyone who ever stops by your home. It’s best to keep any valuables out of sight, especially if they’re small enough to fit in someone’s hands. This way, they’re less likely to be stolen. There are also some ways to protect your valuables even if they’re out in the open. For example, you can put them in a locked case. A locked case is easier to see than a small box, but it’s also much harder to open. You can also place them in a remote location like a safe or a vault. Make sure to keep a copy of this report, as it is a crucial piece of evidence if you decide to receive compensation for the stolen property. The police can also issue a receipt for the items that you do decide to have returned, which is another helpful piece of evidence. Additionally, you can request that the police collect a DNA sample from the stolen property as well. Don’t be afraid to ask for help After you’ve taken all of these steps, it may feel like there’s nothing left to do. However, there are a few things you can do to help yourself recover from the burglary and start to feel like you’re in control again. If you have any support networks in your life, such as friends and family, now would be the time to utilize them. After a burglary is not the time to shut out all human contact — you need people in your life who can help you through this difficult time. If you don’t have any support networks, don’t be afraid to go out and make some new connections. You can join a grief support group or even just go out and meet new people. Conclusion Finally, after you’ve taken all of these steps, don’t be surprised if you feel a little bit depressed. Burglary is an extremely traumatic event, and it can take a long time to recover from it. The best way to speed up the process and reduce the level of trauma is to find the person who did it and get justice. Finding justice will often take much longer than you would like, especially if you live in a country that has a slow legal system. In the meantime, however, there are things that you can do to reduce the level of stress and trauma that you experience from the burglary. Be patient with yourself, and know that it’s okay to feel what you’re feeling. Keep in mind that these steps won’t work for everyone. Everyone experiences a burglary differently, and there is no “right” way to handle it. Take care of yourself during this difficult time, and know that you deserve to take as much time as you need to heal.