Home Burglary
General Tips
- In 2013, 34% of burglaries were "unlawful" entries; meaning that there was no force used to get inside. Always be sure to lock all doors and windows when leaving the house or going to bed.
- When leaving the house at night, leave a light or two on inside; make it look occupied.
- Always be sure to lock all doors and windows when leaving or going to bed.
- If you are going on a trip, ask a friend, family member, or neighbor to grab your mail and newspapers. The more it builds up, the more it looks like someone isn’t home.
- Try and have someone mow your lawn if you’re away for an extended period of time.
- Be sure to regularly check your locks on your doors and change them if necessary.
- Push-button locks are easy to get into; think about installing dead bolts on your outside doors instead.
- Try to avoid leaving grills, bikes, and other outdoor activities equipment out. Store them in your garage if you can.
- Installing an alarm system can give you the best sense of security, especially when away. But remember an alarm system can only be effective when it’s activated.
- If your keys are stolen, change locks immediately.
- Try and have sufficient exterior lighting; motion-sensor lights are available!
- Never leave a key under the mat or in a flower pot. Intruders know where to look for spares!
If Your Home Has Been Broken Into
- Do not enter. The perpetrator could still be inside.
- Get to a neighbor’s house and call the police.
- Don’t move or touch anything; let the police inspect for evidence.
- Write down license plates of suspicious vehicles.
- Try to recall everything in your home, and note things that look out of place once the police arrive.
- Make detailed list of everything that was stolen.
- Make sure all money and documents are accounted for.
Remember, an alarm system only works if you remember to activate it!