According to the FBI, a burglary occurs every 23 seconds in the United States. This statistic shows how common burglaries are and how important it is to secure your home from intruders. Burglars are always looking for new ways to break into homes, and homeowners must be aware of these methods to protect their homes and valuables. In this article, we will discuss the top five ways burglars break into homes and provide tips on how to prevent them.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Method 1: Unlocked doors and windows
- Method 2: Picking locks
- Method 3: Forced entry
- Method 4: Bypassing the alarm system
- Method 5: Impersonating service personnel
- How to prevent burglaries
- Install high-quality locks and deadbolts
- Secure windows and sliding doors
- Install a security system
- Use exterior lighting
- Create the illusion of occupancy
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Method 1: Unlocked doors and windows
The most common method burglars use to enter homes is through unlocked doors and windows. Burglars often walk around neighborhoods looking for easy targets, and an unlocked door or window is an open invitation. They can easily enter and exit the home, often without leaving any signs of forced entry.
How to prevent it
The best way to prevent burglars from using this method is to always lock your doors and windows, even when you’re at home. It’s also essential to secure any sliding doors and windows with additional locks or security bars.
Method 2: Picking locks
Picking locks is another common method burglars use to gain entry to homes. Burglars can quickly pick a lock and gain access to your home without leaving any signs of forced entry. This method is often used in homes with low-quality locks.
How to prevent it
To prevent burglars from picking your locks, it’s crucial to install high-quality locks and deadbolts. Consider upgrading to a smart lock that can only be opened with a code or key. Smart locks can also be programmed to send notifications when someone enters or leaves your home.
Method 3: Forced entry
Forced entry is a more obvious method burglars use to gain entry to homes. Burglars may use a crowbar, hammer, or other tools to break down a door or window. They can also use a rock or brick to break a window.
How to prevent it
To prevent forced entry, it’s essential to install high-quality doors and windows that can withstand force. Consider adding security film to your windows, which can prevent them from shattering even if they are broken. You can also install security bars or grilles over windows and glass doors.
Method 4: Bypassing the alarm system
Burglars are becoming more sophisticated, and many now know how to bypass traditional alarm systems. They may disable the system by cutting wires or jamming the signal.
How to prevent it
To prevent burglars from bypassing your alarm system, it’s crucial to install a high-quality system that can’t be easily disabled. Consider a system with a cellular connection, which can’t be disabled by cutting wires. You can also install sensors on doors and windows that will trigger the alarm if someone tries to tamper with them.
Method 5: Impersonating service personnel
Burglars may also try to gain entry to your home by impersonating service personnel, such as utility workers or repair technicians. They may say they need to enter your home to check the gas, water, or electrical lines, and use this as an opportunity to gain access to your home and steal valuables.
How to prevent it
To prevent burglars from impersonating service personnel, it’s essential to verify their identity before letting them into your home. Always ask for identification and confirm their presence with the utility or service company. If in doubt, call the company to verify their identity.
How to prevent burglaries
While it’s important to be aware of the various methods burglars use to gain entry to homes, it’s equally important to take steps to prevent burglaries. Here are some tips on how to secure your home and prevent burglaries:
Install high-quality locks and deadbolts
As mentioned earlier, high-quality locks and deadbolts can prevent burglars from picking locks or gaining entry through unlocked doors and windows. Invest in a sturdy lockset for your front and back doors and install deadbolts on all exterior doors.
Secure windows and sliding doors
Secure windows and sliding doors with additional locks or security bars. You can also install window film or tempered glass to make it harder for burglars to break into your home.
Install a security system
Install a security system that includes alarms, motion sensors, and cameras. Consider installing a system with a cellular connection, which can’t be disabled by cutting wires.
Use exterior lighting
Use exterior lighting to illuminate your home’s entry points, including front and back doors, garage doors, and windows. Motion-activated lights can also deter burglars.
Create the illusion of occupancy
When you’re away from home, create the illusion of occupancy by leaving lights on, using timers to turn lights on and off, and having someone collect your mail and newspapers.
Conclusion
Burglaries can be devastating and often leave homeowners feeling violated and unsafe. However, by taking steps to secure your home, you can prevent burglaries and protect your valuables. Remember to always lock your doors and windows, install high-quality locks and deadbolts, and use a security system. By doing so, you can keep your home safe and secure.
FAQs
- What should I do if I come home and suspect a burglar has been in my home?
If you suspect a burglar has been in your home, don’t go inside. Call the police and wait for them to arrive. The burglar may still be inside, and it’s important to ensure your safety.
- Are smart locks more secure than traditional locks?
Yes, smart locks are often more secure than traditional locks. They can only be opened with a code or key, and some models can send notifications when someone enters or leaves your home.
- How can I verify the identity of service personnel?
Always ask for identification and confirm their presence with the utility or service company. If in doubt, call the company to verify their identity.
- Should I leave a spare key outside my home?
No, it’s not recommended to leave a spare key outside your home. Burglars know where to look for spare keys and can easily gain entry to your home.
- How often should I change my locks?
It’s recommended to change your locks every few years, especially if you’ve lost a key or moved into a new home. This ensures that only authorized individuals have access to your home.