• Suspend your newspaper and mail delivery; or have a neighbor collect them for you.
• Don't tell too many people you are going to be away.
• Make sure your house looks lived in.  That means having someone shovel the walk, clear your car off if it snows, or park their car in your driveway if you’re taking yours. You can even ask a neighbor to put a bag of garbage at your curb on garbage day.
• Set your lights on timers, in various rooms.  With some timers, the lights go on and off at different times each day, which means a burglar can’t pick up on a pattern. Motion sensor lights outside can also deter a burglar. Consider installing them in front and back.
• Ensure that all your doors and windows are locked and secure.
• Don’t forget about the garage. To be extra safe, place a bar or stick of wood in the lower track of sliding doors or windows.
• Inform a neighbor when you’re leaving and returning, and ask them to keep an eye out for anything suspicious.
• Leave a neighbour with a phone number where you can be reached, and a spare set of your keys in case of an emergency.  You may also leave a phone number of a relative with a neighbour.
• Consider a home security system.  A home security system is a very effective deterrent. When looking for their targets, thieves usually select an unoccupied home with the easiest access. Why not make it difficult for them. A home protected by a security system is three times less susceptible to a break in than one without a system. Security system decals and signs are also an effective deterrent. Make sure your security system includes a loud inside alarm, detectors at all exterior doors, and motion sensors in main living areas.
• Ensure your home security system has 24-hour monitoring.  Having 24-hour home security monitoring significantly increases your systems effectiveness.
• Don't leave valuables in sight through windows.
• Invest in high-quality, name-brand door deadbolt locks for all exterior doors.

Tips complied from information from News Canada and www.protectron.com