Many people leave Rancho Bernardo for the Holidays. Taking a few precautions could well be worth your time.

Studies show that burglars won’t work longer than 60 seconds to get into a home. If you can make it just that much more difficult for thieves to get in, you may have prevented your own burglary. It’s amazing, but true, that 45 percent of burglars gain entry without even using force—by slipping in an open window or simply walking through an unlocked door. Now that is easy for you to fix. Just remember to do it.

When you head out on your holiday vacation, your thoughts may be focused on where you’re going, who you’re going to see (the best part!), but not on what you’re leaving behind. Not a good idea.

If a burglar figures you’re away (from telltale signs you have left behind), you may not come back to what you left behind. If the bad guy sees a dark exterior, shades drawn, or newspapers on the driveway, or a package at the front door, or hears a telephone ringing and ringing, he will know it’s probably safe to enter.

Also remember, the Retired Senior Volunteer Patrol will check your house and grounds six days a week (if you are gone for 5 days or less than 30). Go to their office, which is on the 2^nd floor of the library. Be prepared to give them your emergency contacts, addresses and telephone numbers.

So always lock all doors and windows, as well as the garage door. Slide the bolt inside the garage or padlock the outside. You don’t have a lock? Get one.

Cancel all newspapers, hold the mail and other deliveries, turn the telephone volume down or off, set some interior lights on a timer, and leave drapes or blinds open or, at least, slightly open. Have a friend pick up flyers and other newspapers for you. Let your neighbors know you’ll be away – very important.

It’s also important to leave your outside lights ON ALL NIGHT. Photocell lights are best - easy to install - and go on and off with dawn and dusk. Burglars love the dark - remember that they are experts at using flashlights.

Never "hide" a key; the bad guys know all the places. It’s best to leave a key with a neighbor or a local friend or relative.

REMINDER: December 31 is the deadline for applications to the RB Hall of Fame. You can pick up these applications at Community Services, 2^nd floor library, all community centers and at Senior Services in the Plaza. The Hall of Fame luncheon will be at the Radisson Hotel on Saturday, March 20.