The FBI crime database reveals that more than 847,000 burglaries were reported in 2022. The numbers are astounding because these crimes happen day and night, and perpetrators are living just a few miles away from their victims. Breaking and entering can happen either by chance or unplanned by the perpetrators. However, there are also home security mistakes a lot of us make. Such things can make you a target. Here are some things burglars look for. Be aware, and don’t be part of the statistics.
1. Overgrown Lawn
A lot of burglaries happen during the summer months. It’s also when most families go on a holiday. Before going on a trip, make sure you prepare your yard or hire someone to do so. Untrimmed grass is one of the things that attracts burglars. Also, remember that most of these bad guys enter their target house via the first-floor windows, if not the front door. Aside from ensuring all your entry points are locked and well-secured, a well-groomed yard can help protect your home by not making those easy entry points easier to access for criminals. Aside from the grass, make sure you also maintain the bushes, shrubs, and trees on your property.
2. You Don’t Have Home Security Installed
One of the big home security mistakes that can make you a target of burglary is not having a home security system. Homes that don’t have security systems are 300% more prone to burglary, according to statistics. Burglars are some of the most cunning opportunists, but they will avoid the risk when they know cameras, sensors, and alarm systems protect your home. If you’re on the fence to get a home security system, make sure you get it from a reputable brand and have it installed by professionals. And from time to time, do routine system checks to ensure it is properly working. You can also put up signs around your property to let people know that your space is well-protected, which may also deter bad elements.
3. Pile of Mail and Stacked Up Packages
If you’ll be away for a holiday, the inactivity is quite noticeable for the prying eyes of burglars. If you have a mailbox overflowing with envelopes and your front door looks like Santa’s production line because of the boxes of stuff you ordered online, then you might be in trouble. With a clear sign no one’s home, your hose becomes vulnerable to burglary. Before your vacation, plan ahead. Pause your subscriptions or cancel deliveries. One of the best ways to avoid any hassle is to get a house sitter. They can be a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor who can collect your mail and packages. This way, their movement can mimic your usual routine and discourage burglars from entering your property.
4. The House Is Dark At Night (or Your Lights Are Always On)
When you’re home, you turn the lights on and turn them off as part of your daily routine. However, when your house remains dark all night or your lights are on even during the day, that’s a clear sign no one’s home. Doing this is one of the most basic but worst home security mistakes you can commit. There’s an easy solution, though. You can use timers for your lights or smart lights that you can easily turn on and off to fool any burglars or stalkers. With such technologies, you can remotely or randomly vary your home’s lighting situation, which makes it look more authentic. Aside from smart lights, you can also turn on and off your smart TV while away to make it look like you’re home.
5. No Vehicle in the Driveway (or a Car that hasn’t Move for Days)
Before breaking into your home, burglars will case your home. They will try to observe your routines and see if you’ve committed home security mistakes that make you an easy target. For example, if you go to work on a daily basis and suddenly your car’s just parked for days, the burglars know that you’re not home. The same is true if they’re used to seeing a vehicle in the driveway and suddenly, you’re gone for several days. To improve home safety, you can ask people in your circle to park their cars on your property from time to time. This way, it’s not a giveaway that you’re on a holiday.
6. Oversharing about Your Vacation on Social Media
You’re gone for a few days for a quick getaway and want to keep your home safe from burglars. Just like not showing certain things at home to avoid burglary, don’t post anything on social media as much as possible. Think before you click because what you put on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok can give a hint to the criminals and make your home more vulnerable to burglary. Your trip can be really amazing, but sharing information about your flight or where you are at the moment can make your home a target. Save the snaps for after you’ve returned from your travels. Believe me, they will be as cool without the risk of losing properties you’ve worked so hard for.
7. Blinds and Curtains Don’t Move, Trash Didn’t Go Out
Other home security mistakes still involve any deviation from your usual home routine. Before implementing their plan, burglars stake out and observe your daily habits. If you usually open your window drapes in the morning and close them at night, burglars might notice the sudden change if you’re not home for several days. As part of home security tips, it’s best to invest in smart blinds. You can schedule them to open or close automatically while you’re away. Burglars may also observe routine tasks such as throwing trash out or garbage collection. Again, it’s a giveaway if there’s no movement. Your house is an easy target.
Avoid Common Home Security Mistakes
Don’t be an easy target for burglars. Put into practice basic home security tips that can help protect yourself, your family, and your properties. Invest in more secure doors and windows to start with. Home security systems are also not a luxury these days but an essential. Use available tools and technologies to make your “presence” known even when you’re away. Remember, burglars are opportunistic, so don’t give them the chance to take advantage of your vulnerabilities. Most burglaries are preventable with a little effort and a good dose of avoiding home security mistakes.