How to Protect Your Property and Privacy Legally with One Simple Sign

 As a professional writer, I've written for a lot of different clients, from celebrities like Steve Martin and Terry Bradshaw to "Shark Tank," to small businesses just wanting to increase their brand recognition and I will continue to do this. I also write about many important topics such as how to increase your personal security. I wrote for ADT once and gave tips on how to stay safe and keep prowlers at a distance.

But some things need to be brought to attention about prowlers and potential thieves. They are not always what they seem. Having studied forensic psychology for many decades, it's wise to remember that the most obvious ones are not always the criminals. Sometimes they come with a "pretext" of wanting to help you. For example, it could be a salesman at your door under the pretense of selling insurance, a lawn person asking if they can mow your lawn, or someone leaving a business card at your door. I'm not saying everyone who does this is a criminal, but criminals DO practice these behaviors sometimes to see how close they can get to you or your property. The psychology behind this is that they know they need a viable REASON to be there at your door or property, so they make up a story that is both believable and reasonable.

So, before you answer the door, remember that it could be someone selling you something or someone just wanting access to your home and property. One sign will do the trick many times because of the legal power behind it.

NO TRESSPASSING means just what it says: Do not stand on or enter my property for ANY reason. In fact, I put one up recently and  a lawyer told me that once you have posted this sign, it means you have issued a legal warning to any potential criminal. If they get on your property after seeing this sign, they have broken the law and you can call the police and have them arrested.

This may seem harsh or overreacting. But it's not. The law views someone who would enter a property, stand on your porch, knock on your door, or other to be an act of aggression and defiance against your request not to trespass. Therefore, if the police come after they have done so, it can be considered a misdemeanor on the first offense and a felony on subsequent offenses.

I bought myself this NO TRESSPASSING SIGN recently on Amazon and it seems to do the trick so far. It's large enough to see from several feet away, features bold red and white lettering and warns that "violators will be prosecuted." This isn't just a bluff.

If they get on your property, they CAN be prosecuted. Get yours now at Amazon and post it in clear view of the road or driveway. You may be amazed at the difference. I'm not saying it's the only thing you should do. I also have an ADT system connected to the police station as well as a call button that summons help immediately if I see anyone suspicious. Having cameras hidden in strategic places outside is also wise. Whether or not you want the camera in an obvious location or hidden will depend on whether you want to use it to scare potential criminals away or actually get them on camera to observe their behavior.

But this sign sends the message that, unless you invited someone, they are NOT WELCOME!

Stay safe!

Deborah L Killion, writer/entrepreneur