You may think that all you need is good home alarm systems to keep the thieves out. But, we have news for you; thieves are trickier and sneakier than we give them credit for. You can never guess which creative ways they can use to gain entry into your home.
1. Sometimes They Simply Walk-In
Burglars take time to understand human beings. Before they come to your house, it may be unnerving to realise how much they have been studying you. They know that you have a habit of rushing out of the house because you’re perpetually late.
They know that you tend to forget to lock the front door. The burglars know that you leave the back door open, so that Betsy, your lovely family dog, can get access to the backyard. Yes, they even know her name, got that chill yet?
Ok, maybe we exaggerate a little, but the point is, a burglar will read you like a book before he attacks. And this is why it is so easy for a burglar to walk into your house, and walk out with valuables. Research by home security experts’ shows that 34% and 22% use the front and back door, respectively.
I guess we don’t need to tell you to make sure you lock up the next time.
2. Windows Are Their Friends
Think of a burglar and the picture that comes to mind is someone who is climbing through a window. Wearing dark clothing, and a cool balaclava mask. Yes, it is cliché but, windows are a great entry point for burglars.
Lock up! Lock up! Lock up! Do we need to emphasise this more than we have?
3. They Have No Problem Using Pet Entrances
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So you’re taking our advice, and are now diligent about locking your front doors and windows. But, Betsy still needs to go out into the yard occasionally, especially when you are away.
So you call the local handyman to create a small door specifically for her. But, some of these burglars have small bodies, and can easily use the pet entrance to gain access into your home.
It is a catch-22 situation because your pets need to be able to move around. Find a way to secure the pet entrance or get someone to walk your pets or let them out when they need to go.
4. They Maximise On Your Weak Spots
There is this false sense of security we get when we have an especially sturdy front door. But do you have the same type for your back or balcony door?
A thief likes convenience, and if your front entrance is a challenge, they move on to the others. It is important that you invest in high-quality doors and windows. Forget about the money; your security is paramount.
You should also pay attention to the secondary entrances like the garage doors and ensure they are also protected by a good alarm system like Verisure. Also, think about the connecting door to the main house from the garage.
Skylights are a great feature to have, but they can give a burglar easy access. Make sure you secure them well.
5. Air Conditioning Units
You don’t know just how much thieves like to see these bulky air conditioning units. They will have direct access into your home because all they need to do is kick it in.
6. You Give Them Access
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Do you know that friendly neighbour from across the street? Yes, the one you share an occasional beer with on the front porch? He might be a burglar. Your daughter could be one. That cleaning lady whose credentials you did not check because she came on recommendation… hmmm.
According to the US Department of Justice, the chance of the burglar being a family member, friend, or acquaintance is 66%. It could be a tough one to deal with, and even if you find out, depending on your relationship, you may not want to take any action.
Try to minimize access to your home to only those who you fully trust. If you are doing repairs to your home, work with people from a reputable company. Having strangers on your property, walking in and out of your house at will, is not a good idea.
Final Thoughts
Burglars take the time to scout a location before they attack. They will also take time to learn the behaviour of the homeowner. More often than not, they will maximize your weaknesses to gain access.
Take your security a bit more seriously so that you make it hard for them. Stop leaving your home keys under the doormat, on top of the door frame, or under the flower pot. Most importantly, invest in a good home security system. This will give you peace of mind, even when you are away.
