[federali]

A locksmith or lock dealer will try to sell you an expensive deadbolt over a Kwikset or similar device. The truth is, it isn't the lock that fails but the doorjamb itself. It splinters under sufficient force. A burglar with the skills necessary to pick your locks will not be bothering with random homes. He's looking for the mother lode and already knows there's something worth his time before he strikes. I like to run extra long screws through the hardware to insure I'm into the studs and, if there's room, I'll back the doorjamb with a glued in piece of 3/4" plywood, then long screw through that.

There's much information on the net regarding burglary prevention and it is all sound advice, such as not letting newspapers, mail acumulate, cutting back shrubs, etc. Also, most burglars don't want to tangle with noisy dogs whether or not they bite.

I might add, never leave handguns in the master bedroom when you're not home.