Ask anyone who’s been on the victim side of a burglary. Theft is not only a violation of property but also a violation of personal safety and emotional well-being. According to national statistics, theft occurs every 30 seconds in the United States. Many of these incidents occur during the day when no one is present in the home.
With only 25% of Americans equipped with a home security system, understanding how to protect your home and identifying risk opportunities is crucial. In this post, we’ll explore seven common ways burglars break into houses and give you advice on how to protect your home.
Unlocked Doors and Windows
It may seem simple, but locking your doors and windows is the first step in home protection. Many burglars enter homes through unlocked doors or windows. And it’s estimated that 34% of burglars enter through the front door. Even the most diligent homeowners can forget to lock a window or an entry now and again. Get in the habit of checking your doors or windows before you leave home or go to bed.
Bonus: Add window and door sensors to double the protection at all entry points. With a window and door contact, you’ll be notified whenever a door or window is opened or closed.
Social Engineering
Social engineering involves deceptive methods like impersonation or distraction. For instance, a burglar might pose as a delivery person or utility worker and take advantage of your absence to break in. Always ask for ID and remain vigilant.
Breaking Windows
One standard method for forced entry is breaking windows, often done using crowbars or other tools. To protect your windows, consider reinforcing windows with security film or installing window bars to deter these attempts. You should have a glass break detector installed, so you and CPI Security are notified whenever the glass is broken.
We also recommend auditing your ground-floor windows (and accessible second/third-floor windows). Look for any window you can’t see from the front of the house (maybe one hidden by an exterior wall). Secure these windows first, as they are more likely to be targets. In fact, about 81% of burglars enter through the first floor.
Prying Doors
A locked door may prevent some break-ins, but unfortunately, even a simple home door lock is not enough. Burglars frequently use crowbars or screwdrivers to pry open weak or poorly protected doors. To counter this, consider installing deadbolts or door reinforcement plates.
For back or side doors, purchase a door security stopper. These slide under the doorknob and act as a barrier to anyone trying to push open a door even after it’s been pried open.
Lock Picking
Lock picking isn’t just child’s play. It’s a highly treasured skill among criminals (and TikTokers). Skilled burglars often pick locks to gain entry, and they do it fast. High-security locks with pick-resistant features prevent experienced burglars from circumventing your lock systems.
Crawlspace and Attic Access
Have you ever wondered what goes bump in the night? It might not just be a ghost. While less common, burglars could exploit crawlspaces or attics. These are desirable locations as they are often overlooked and allow easy entry into a home. To secure these areas, add motion-activated lights or alarms.
Garage and Backyard Entry
Skilled burglars can hack garage door openers or guess fence security pin codes. Avoid leaving your garage door clicker in your car, and always close the door, even when you’re home. Backyards are also easy access entry points because they offer a lot of hiding spots. Secure your garage door by installing heavy-duty locks and secure your lawn by maintaining a well-lit environment.
Understanding how burglars break in, how often they return, and how they pick a house for a potential burglary can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim. While no method is foolproof, taking proactive steps dramatically enhances your home’s security.
Don’t be lax when it comes to safeguarding your home. Implementing the right security measures can provide unparalleled peace of mind, as burglars tend to avoid homes that are well-protected. Whether you’re thinking about how often burglars break windows or bypass security systems, being one step ahead can make all the difference. Keep learning, stay aware, and most importantly, stay safe.
For complete peace of mind, check out CPI Security’s comprehensive home security systems. Take the first step toward a safer home today.
