Not all burglars wear black face masks and lurk around your neighbourhood at night. Some of them are dressed in official looking uniforms, carrying fake ID - ready to perform a highly thought out distraction burglary.
Your house could be next on their hit-list, so absorb the following advice and learn how to effectively turn away bogus callers in disguise...
There are two types of distraction burglary:
Keeping you occupied at the front door:
You will get a knock at the door from someone claiming to be from a double glazing company, the RSPCA or even a charity.
You open the door and, even if you say you're not interested, s/he will do whatever it takes to maintain a conversation. Meanwhile, an accomplice has snuck into your back garden and is finding the easiest way in through a rear window or door.
The opportunist will grab anything within arm's reach - perhaps a handbag on the kitchen counter, loose change or a mobile phone. They know they don't have much time, so they won't wander too far around the house. Then, they will slip out of your home unnoticed whilst you are engaging with the imposter at your front door.
Gaining access and then striking
On the other hand, the more violent and dangerous criminals will ring your doorbell, wait for you to answer and then force their way in.
They could be dressed as a courier delivering a parcel you have been waiting for...and they could have multiple 'partners in crime' waiting just around the corner of your house, ready to strike.
Watch the video below to see an attempted distraction burglary in action!
If you're not sure, don't open the door!
It's a sad fact of life that many homeowners are scared to answer the door to unfamiliar faces. They teach their children to ignore the doorbell and to look out of the window first.
As sad as it is, it's smart advice. You should also:
Take this short, 5 minute quiz to work out your personal home security score. A low score could mean you're at risk! But don't worry - we'll give the the appropriate next steps to safeguard your home.
