When you leave for vacation, in the back of your mind you think, “Will my home and valuables be safe in my absence?”
While many burglaries happen when people are away from home, unfortunately not all do, and the outcome can be tragic. There are things you should know about home burglaries that can help you protect yourself, your family and your home.
- Desperate and dangerous non-professionals make up 85% of those who perform residential burglaries, the most common type of robbery. If you encounter a thief in the process, call 911 and don’t play the hero!
- Typically, teenage boys are the most likely group to burglarize. They may look young and innocent, but place caution and safety above your impulse to parent the wayward teen. These teens can be desperate and, therefore, dangerous.
- Most burglaries, 65%, occur during the day when the thief thinks you will be at work. If you take a day off, and especially if your car is gone, the burglar may assume you are not at home. Keep your doors locked, and your home security system set, even while at home.
- Thieves read social media, too. Often, your burglar will live within two miles of your home. There is a high likelihood you will know him, or a friend will know him. Don’t post your itinerary on Facebook, Instagram, or any other social media site. It’s an open invitation to the guy staking out your house.
- Don’t make it easy for a burglar to hide. Trees and shrubs near windows and doors offer excellent cover for thieves. Poor lighting around your home at night makes hiding and escaping easier. Don’t ever pursue a burglar. Call 911 and let the professionals handle it.
- Burglars typically spend less than twelve minutes in your home. Master bedrooms are often the first target. Keep small valuables such as jewelry and silver coins in a bank safe deposit box. Don’t leave your smartphone, laptop, iPad, or other easy-to-steal technology visible. Tuck it away and out of sight.
Less than 18% of US homes have an active security system in place. Contact us for information on the security system that is right for you. For more information on ways to protect yourself from home burglaries, go to Burglary Prevention.org.