In order to catch a crook, one must think like one. This can be a difficult task for the majority of law abiding citizens out there; if you’ve never committed any type of crime, how would you know the mindset of a criminal?
A different, yet quite effective alternative is to pay attention to some of the things that known burglars have done in the past and then better protect yourself accordingly. The following is an interview conducted with some burglars about how their process:
“How did you typically break into a home or apartment?
Most inmates broke in through an unlocked door or window. Several burglars kicked the door open.
“I would kick in the door rather than break glass. Loud bangs are better than loud glass breaking, plus you run the risk of getting cut,” said one inmate.
Once inside, what was the first thing you looked to steal?
Jewelry, electronics, cash and credit cards are all attractive to burglars. Inmates also added collectibles and guns.
“NRA sticker on car bumper = Lots of guns to steal,” wrote one burglar.
What time of the day did you prefer to break in?
Burglars prefer breaking in early morning or afternoon.
“Between 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm. Anyone that was home for lunch should be gone by then and most kids should all still be in school,” wrote a convicted burglar.
Did you typically knock on the front door before breaking into a home?
Yes.All of the inmates who responded said they would knock on the front door before breaking in.
If a home alarm system went off, what would you do?
Most intruders said they would leave immediately if a security alarm went off.
“I would try and turn it off or get the hell out of there,” said one burglar.
If there was a security camera visible, would it keep you from breaking in?
Generally, burglars agreed security cameras were a deterrent. But some said it also likely signaled there were valuables inside the home.”
It’s important to note how much of a deterrent having a security system in a home was toward them not attempting or having a greater challenge with burglarizing that particular home. All the more reason to outfit your home if you haven’t already (or upgrade) to a home security system professionally installed and monitored by Henderson Security, your Ottawa home security professional.