Back in December 2016, we published this post with a video of a convicted burglar revealing the tricks of the trade in the hope of encouraging homeowners to think more carefully about security.
The video from Essex Police, is no longer available but the parts we highlighted then are still relevant.
Read on for some effective, but often underestimated, tips on how to secure your home.
A burglar's tricks of the trade
For obvious reasons, the convicted burglar remained anonymous but he wasn't shy about revealing the drug-fueled past that spurred him on to break into numerous homes.
The key points he made were:
- He burgled homes at night to avoid getting caught
- Out of 20 homes, at least 3 or 4 would leave their doors unlocked
- He never used to target specific homes, he just roamed the street until he came across a house that was easy to get into
- If the doors were locked, he would leave the house alone
- He would steal small valuables such as cash, jewellery or smart phones so that he didn't look suspicious when he left
- The biggest give away as to whether your home is an easy target is if your car is left unlocked on the driveway
He even said that he was able to break into homes with alarm systems because homeowners often left them unset at night!
How to secure your home and prevent a break in
Now you know how a burglar thinks, follow the steps below so you are always one step ahead.
Remember, if your home is an easy target, the burglar could return to raid your home a second time!
Concerned About Your Home Security?
Our experienced security experts know the warning signs that can make a property more attractive to burglars.
Download our free home security guide to see what you should check around your home.
Download the free guide
This article is provided for general information and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice, a fire risk assessment, a compliance audit, a technical specification, or a substitute for advice based on inspection of your premises. You should not rely on it as the basis for taking action, delaying action, or deciding not to act. Your legal duties, fire safety arrangements and system requirements depend on your specific premises, use, occupancy, risk profile and the findings of a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment.
Fire safety and security legislation, standards, guidance and enforcement practice can change. Blake Fire & Security Systems makes no representations or guarantees, express or implied, that content on this site is accurate, complete or current. For practical advice about fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, security systems or system maintenance requirements for your premises,
Call Blake's on 01702 447800. For legal advice, fire risk assessment advice or confirmation of your statutory duties, speak to an appropriately qualified legal adviser, competent fire risk assessor or competent fire safety professional.
