Burglaries are on the rise in the UK, and unfortunately not enough homeowners are taking the necessary steps to protect their homes. The first step towards better home security is being informed about the way burglars operate and how burglaries take place. Our top 5 facts about burglaries will help debunk common myths and bring to light some shocking facts about home burglaries.
Daytime burglaries are the most common
When you think of home burglaries you may picture discreet burglars dressed in black and sneaking around at night. Factually, most burglaries occur in broad daylight. This is because homes are most likely to be unattended during the day. It is therefore important that you do not neglect the security of your house during the day. Make sure all your doors and windows are shut and locked when you leave your house, and activate any home security systems you have in place. Even if you are just leaving for a short amount of time, it is always better to be safe than sorry.
Your household possessions aren’t the main target
Burglars aren’t typically after your TVs, large electronics and expensive appliances. Personal data theft is now much more common as burglars can sell your personal data from various documents and items such as passports, laptops and bank cards. While it is recommended to keep your most prized possessions hidden and locked away, ensure your home safety mindset revolves around your personal information.
Home burglaries aren’t always planned
Nearly half of all home burglaries are committed in the spur of the moment. Whether it’s walking past a home that looks like an easy target or spotting an open window, burglars often act in the moment and do not pre-plan home burglaries. Ensuring all potential entry points are shut and having a house alarm clearly on can be highly effective in deterring this type of spontaneous burglaries.
Burglars aren’t always strangers
A huge 43% of burglaries are committed by people who know the homeowner. Burglars are generally close to home – they aim for people and houses that are familiar to them to increase their chances of breaking in successfully. Someone who knows your way of living, your home layout, and your neighbourhood have a clear advantage to commit a successful burglary. Be vigilant with acquaintances that ask for information about your schedule, your home, and your lifestyle.
Most burglaries take less than 10 minutes
Burglars tend to act very quickly and swiftly to avoid being spotted and reduce the chances of being found out. A home with a security system may be able to alert the police quickly enough to intercept the intruder, as well as deter burglars if they think the system in place will not allow them to get in and out in a matter of minutes. This is why the majority of burglaries take place in homes that do not have any form of home security or alarms in place. Therefore, the best way to protect yourself is simply to have an efficient and visible home security system.