Ever wondered if security cameras and alarms really help in preventing burglaries? The answer is a resounding yes, as confirmed by none other than the burglars themselves.
KGW-TV conducted a survey asking 86 incarcerated individuals, convicted of burglary, about their motivations for breaking into homes and what might deter them.
Secure Your Entrances
This may seem like common sense, but leaving doors and windows unlocked is the most frequently used method for burglars to gain entry into homes, according to CNET.
While many individuals secure their homes when they leave, many will forget to lock a door or leave a window ajar if they’re only stepping out briefly or while they are at home—opportunistic criminals take advantage of these lapses.
Garages also often serve as vulnerable entry points. An unlocked garage door combined with an unsecured door leading into the home presents another invitation to intruders.
The Role of Security Systems
When asked if visible security cameras would discourage them from breaking into a house, the majority of surveyed burglars responded affirmatively. If you’re using a smart doorbell camera, consider placing signs that indicate cameras are in use, as not every criminal will recognize them.
Audible alarms are similarly effective. Criminals indicated they would flee immediately upon hearing an alarm.
Additionally, motion-activated outdoor lighting serves as a powerful deterrent, illuminating the outside of your property and making it more difficult for burglars to approach unnoticed.
Image credit: Google Nest
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