Have you ever wondered what the chances are of an intruder gaining access to your home? If you live in the US, the chances are, unfortunately, quite high. Did you know that the US leads the world in burglary rates?
Each minute in the US, four burglaries occur; that’s one every 15 seconds. After hearing that scary statistic, we were curious to find out more about break-ins, and how they can be used to help keep your home safe from intruders. When you are thinking about your home’s security, make sure to bear this information in mind.
What are the most common ways for intruders to gain access to your home?
While around 60 percent of intruders use force to enter your home, 30 percent of burglars gain entry to properties via an unlocked door or window.
This suggests that although forcible entry is used to enter a high percentage of properties, failing to lock doors and windows is the cause of over a quarter of break-ins. To ensure that you keep yourself and your home safe, it is crucial that you lock all windows and doors before leaving your property.
Do burglar alarms work?
Burglar alarms are highly effective at warding off intruders. According to recent studies, a majority of convicted criminals who were asked, said that they avoided homes with security alarms. Intruders who would enter properties with alarms admitted that as soon as the alarm sounded, they would flee.
This suggests that by having a security system installed in your home, your property has more protection against burglaries. Don’t opt for a wired alarm system, as many convicted intruders admitted to cutting the wires. Instead, invest in a wireless security system.
Where is your home’s weak point?
Around 30 percent of burglars enter properties via the front door by kicking it in or picking the lock.
If your property is fitted with an old wooden door or door that’s hollow, it is a good idea to replace it with something stronger. If you are unsure about how safe your door’s lock is, it’s a good idea to consult alocksmith and ask for some advice about the most secure locks.
Will intruders return?
While intruders may not return to your property more than once, it isn’t uncommon. This is because they are familiar with the layout and believe they will do know where all your expensive items are hidden.
If you are the victim of a break in, make sure to increase your home’s security with a burglar alarm, motion sensor lighting and security cameras. The more secure your property looks, the less likely that an intruder will try to break in.
What can you do to protect yourself?
During 28 percent of break-ins, the homeowner is actually in the property. This is a scary statistic, especially as in seven percent of burglaries the homeowner suffered some form of violence.
If an intruder breaks into your home while you are in, the most important thing is that you keep yourself safe. If you are concerned about your personal safety, creating a safe room in your home is a good idea. Your safe room should be equipped with a fully charged mobile phone, torches, a weapon – if you have one and bottled water.