In any case, home is where we feel safest; where you can relax and unwind. Now, what if your daily habits were unwittingly putting that safety at risk? Most of us fail to notice small details that burglars wouldn’t mind noticing. The vast majority of break-ins, unfortunately, aren’t as spectacular as Ocean’s Eleven but are instead the product of a handful of regular routines that leave our homes open to invaders. The first step to protecting your space and your peace of mind is to understand these pitfalls.
Therefore, let’s delve into the refined yet potent habits you might have unknowingly opened the door to bringing unwanted guests into your home. Tech oversights and plain old forgetfulness are behind some of these, and fortunately, all are fixable with a little awareness, and just a little effort.
Hiding Spare Keys Outside
It’s classic—the sort of thing someone would do: slipping a key under the mat, in a flower pot, or up the doorframe. Unfortunately, this is where burglars will start looking first. In fact, most break-ins aren’t ‘forced entry’; thieves simply find hidden keys. Easier, though, would be to give a spare to a trusted neighbor or invest in a secure lockbox. Don’t use obvious hiding spots; just don’t—a little creativity will go a long way to keep your house secure.
Ignoring Your Landscaping
While having overgrown bushes and trees may make your yard more charming, they are the perfect place for burglars to hide. Cut back vegetation around windows and doors so that there are no hiding spots for a burglar trying to gain entrance. Thorny shrubs like roses can be a natural deterrent, plus they are just plain pretty under windows.
Leaving the Lights Off Too Long
Conserving energy (and your electric bill) might be as simple as switching the lights off, but prolonged darkness draws burglars like a beacon. An unlit house in the evening or at night is a big tell that no one’s home, but according to the FBI’s crime data, 65% of burglaries happen during the day while folks are at work. Good timers or motion lighting will keep your house lit without costing you. Burglars tend to avoid houses that look active, hence why a well-lit exterior makes your home look alive and occupied.
Neglecting to Lock Windows
Summer living, with open windows, is wonderful, but leaving yourself unattended to unlock windows beforehand can turn into a disaster. Around 30% of all break-ins are through an unlocked door or window, and windows are one of the easiest ways in for burglars. Second-story windows aren’t off-limits. Window locks or stoppers are an easy way to make it much harder for intruders to get in.
Using Outdated Locks
Your home’s first line of defense is locks, but outdated locks are more easily damaged by a pick or the bump method. Basic pin tumbler locks, particularly those of older models, are ‘no match’ for modern lock-picking tools. A world of difference can be made by upgrading to high-security deadbolts or smart locks.
Forgetting to Lock the Garage
The garage can be overlooked in home security, and that’s a big mistake. If your garage doesn’t connect directly to your house, it still probably has tools, bikes, and other things that you wouldn’t want to see taken. Many burglars will test garage doors first, as they’re often left unsecured. Sturdy locks and disconnecting automatic openers when away for long periods are key.
Leaving Tools and Ladders Outside
Leaving a ladder up against the garage or tools left in the yard might not seem like a big deal to you, but it’s like giving the burglars a cheat code. Second-story windows are accessible with ladders, and tools may be used to break locks or smash windows. When storing such items, always make sure to use a secure shed or garage—you don’t want to make breaking in any easier than it needs to be.
Skipping the Security System
Are you under the impression that only the wealthy or paranoid have security systems? Think again. From affordability to accessibility, modern systems are more accessible than ever. According to the University of North Carolina, 60% of convicted burglars also said they would avoid homes with security systems. Basic setups that include cameras and alarms can slash your chances of being targeted. Today, many systems enable you to remotely monitor your home for extra peace of mind.
Mail and Packages Pile Up
An overflowing mailbox or a pile of Amazon boxes on the porch screams, “Nobody’s home.” You can even pause your mail delivery or ask a neighbor to collect it for you. But porch pirates aren’t the only thing to be concerned with—a cluttered entryway is an open invitation to anyone prowling the neighborhood.
Leaving the Windows Open at Night
Burglars like an uncurtained window because it’s a stage for them to preview what’s inside your home. They will break in if they spot expensive electronics or other valuables. The effect is even worse at night as people can see the interior from the outside. If you live on a busy street or near a public place, make it a habit to close your blinds or curtains.
Social Media and Posting Your Vacation
Sure, posting shots of your tropical getaway might generate lots of likes, but it’s also a way to tip off burglars that you’re not home. A study conducted by the UK’s Co-op Insurance found that 78% of burglars use social media to find targets. Don’t forget to snap those sandy beach photos till after you return.
