Everything Home Security: Tips from Burglars
This post was originally published in December 2014. It was updated in April 2020.
When it comes to your home and your belongings you can never be too safe. A recent report from KTVB 7 News asked 86 burglars about how to prevent break-in. While home security systems are at the top of the list when it comes to protecting your home, there are many safety tips you can practice on a regular basis. We pulled together some of those basic tips to deter burglars:
A ‘Beware of Dog’ sign is a great deterrent.
The mere presence of the sign is usually an automatic no-no for burglars, and a good way to deter them. You can also use home security signs or stickers.
Trim your trees and bushes.
Large trees and bushes make a burglar’s job easier; the same privacy that homeowners enjoy from large trees and shrubs will only aid a burglar.
Collect your mail and packages.
Burglars keep an eye out for a full mailbox, pile of newspapers or packages on the doorstep, as they’re an indicator that the home may have been empty for a few days. If you’re heading out of town, either stop your mail or make arrangements for someone (like a neighbor) to collect it.
Remove fliers and stickers from your door.
Burglars may mark a target home with a pizza flyer or sticker to see how long it takes for the homeowners to remove it.
Avoid announcing your location on social media.
Burglars use social media too, and they’re looking at your announcements about a vacation or a night out as an opportunity to break into your home.
Be wary of window air conditioning units.
No matter how you screw or bolt them in, they can be removed or pushed in with little effort.
Do not leave any home repair equipment – especially ladders – lying around.
Securely store your equipment away as soon as you’re finished. Burglars can use ladders to reach the upper windows that often have less security.
Store your valuables in a safe.
Burglars are looking to get in and get out, and a safe takes too much time to break into for it to be worth it. Make sure the safe is bolted down.
Do not confront a burglar.
Burglars want to avoid confrontation as much as you do, but they’re also very unpredictable. Don’t risk your safety and well-being for replaceable items.
Get a home alarm system and use it.
Burglars are wary of homes that are protected, but have found that many homeowners neglect to arm their alarm systems.
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