If you have ever been the victim of a burglary, then you know how traumatising this experience can be. Burglars will always find a reason to separate homeowners from their valuables and don't care about the upset and anxiety they cause. While a robbery lasts less than ten minutes on average, the effects could last for a lifetime.
So how can a homeowner make their home burglar-proof? There are several measures you can put in place and the best place to start is knowing the different types of burglary that many homeowners in England experience. Here are three of them, along with what you can do to deter burglars from targeting your home.
Distraction burglary is often targeted against the elderly or vulnerable. Thieves use a trick, a lie, or a distraction on an occupant to gain entry into a home and steal valuables and cash.
These criminals typically work in teams, with one posing as a utility worker, salesman, police officer, care worker or council staff while the other sneaks into the house through the back door or some other opening. These burglars are highly organised and the homeowner will not realise they have been the victim of burglary until the criminals have left.
To protect yourself from distraction burglary, always insist on seeing the ID of the caller or any relevant paperwork and then check it! Call the company directly (not the number on the card) and ask if they've sent anyone. If you are at all suspicious about their identity, ask them to leave immediately and close your door. Show them you're not their next victim!
Some burglars scout an area first to identify potential targets for break-ins. Once they have spotted a home that looks like an easy prospect, they leave symbols and signs to mark it and communicate with other burglars so they know that the property is vulnerable.
If you notice unusual drawings on your walls, fence, door, or bin, it could be a sign that your property is marked out for a burglary. Look out for advertising stickers or white stones near or on your property. If you see suspicious codes on your home, alert your family to be cautious and update your home’s security before it is too late.
The opportunistic burglar is the kind of criminal who does not have a plan to break into a particular home. Most of the time, they stroll around areas until they stumble upon a vulnerable home. If, for instance, the burglar sees a property with an open garage door or window, they realise that it’s an easy prospect and will often break in. Such burglars are very unpredictable and will steal any item of value they can find.
It is essential to double-check whether you have locked your doors, windows, and gate before leaving your home to avert this type of burglary. Make a family rule that the last person to leave checks every lock. A good relationship with your neighbours is important, since they can report any suspicious activity they see in your property when you are not around, and you can do the same for them.
Taking the right precautions can help deter burglars. Blake Fire and Security's experts have put together a free quiz for homeowners like you! It covers your property and its front and back garden. Click the image below to take the quiz for FREE!
