Most burglaries happen during the day, while parents are at work and kids are at school, not at night as the movies suggest. Understanding how burglars think is the first step toward beating them. Here are the tactics we hear about most, and how to counter each one.
Dogs
Dogs deter burglars, but never leave your dog outside when you are away. Burglars have been known to lure animals away with meat, such as sausage with poison or a drug hidden inside. Keeping your dog indoors makes it far less likely to fall for that kind of attempt.
Power loss
Some burglars plan their approach around moments when the lights go out, and some will try to force an outage. Keep a fully charged cell phone on standby at all times so you can call for help if the power fails.
Dumpster diving
Shred important documents before you throw them out. Anyone can go through your trash and learn a great deal about you.
People you know
Cleaners, municipal workers, cable repair technicians and garden crews all get a look around your property. Sadly, the person who asks to use your bathroom and gets a better look inside is sometimes the one who comes back later. Be diligent about who you hire, and if you can do a job yourself, do it. You will save money and remove the risk.
What a safe adds
Even a perfectly prepared home can be entered, so valuables need their own layer of protection. A properly rated, bolted-down safe turns a quick grab into a long, noisy and risky job. Learn how to pick one in five questions to ask before you buy a safe, and see how it fits into a layered home security plan.
Frequently asked questions
When do most burglaries happen?
During the day, when homes are empty because parents are at work and kids are at school.
Should I leave my dog outside while I am away?
No. Burglars have lured outdoor dogs away with drugged or poisoned food. Keep your dog inside.
Why should I shred documents?
Trash can reveal a lot of personal information to anyone who goes looking, so shred anything important before you discard it.
Protect what matters most
Browse residential safes or call Wilson Safe Company at (800) 345-8053 for advice on the right protection for your home.