How can burglars break into your home?
That’s the big question homeowners ask when in search of the best ways to protect their homes. According to statistics, a break-in occurs every 26 seconds in the US with an average cost of around $2,800 to the homeowner.
Therefore, it’s important to know how burglars break into homes. This knowledge will help you take strategic steps to keep your property and family safe. Unlike what we see in movies, not all burglars plot detailed plans with a group of criminal masterminds to break into your home. They rely mostly on opportunity.
If you’re reading this article, then you’re in luck. We’ll answer the question, “How can burglars break into your home?” Also, we’ll give you tips to secure your home.
You’re in? Let’s dive!
What Tools Can Burglars Use To Break Into My Home?
Before we begin, let’s take a quick dive into the world of burglars and see some tools they can use to break into your home. Here’s a list for you:
- Crowbars and pry bars: They can use these tools to force open your windows, doors, and locks.
- Lock-picking tools: Burglars can use lock-picking tools to manipulate your locks and gain entry into your home.
- Hammers: Most burglars use a hammer to quickly smash your windows or break down your doors.
- Drill: They can also use a drill to create a hole in your lock or to remove screws from your door or window.
- Wire cutters: These can be used by burglars to cut through your window screens, security grills, or chains.
- Ladders: If you have a ladder lying around your house, burglars can use it to gain access to the upper floors of your home or climb over fences.
Ways Burglars Can Break Into Your Home And How To Prevent Them
Other statistics show that over half (65%) of burglaries occur during daylight hours since that is when most people aren’t home. Burglars want to be quick when the right opportunity presents itself. Here’s how burglars can break into your home and tips to prevent them:
1. Unlocked doors or windows
Keeping your doors or windows unlocked when you’re away is like giving a VIP invitation to burglars. Homes with unlocked doors or windows are quick and easy targets for burglars. There’s a chance that a burglar will see your home as an attractive option if you keep your windows or doors open. Here are some tips to help you:
- Check your windows and doors to ensure they are locked before going out, even if it’s for a short period.
- Make sure your door or window locks are not faulty, else ensure you change them immediately.
- Ensure you keep your valuables out of sight. Your electronics, jewelry, and other expensive items shouldn’t be visible through your windows or from the street.
2. Forced entry
Some burglars can use force to break open your doors or windows. They may use tools like crowbars, hammers, and drills to open your door or window. Some can even kick down or use a car to ram your door. Let’s show you some tips you can use to prevent this:
- Install strong and sturdy doors and windows: Use solid wood or metal doors and windows with reinforced glass. This will make it difficult for burglars to break through them.
- Use high-quality locks: Make sure you use deadbolt locks with anti-drill features to make it hard for burglars to drill or pry open locks.
- Keep your property well-lit: Install exterior lighting around your home. This will also help to deter burglars from approaching and attempting to break in.
- Secure your valuables: Keep your valuables in a safe or hidden spot to make it tough for burglars to find and steal them.
3. Lock picking
This is a skill most burglars can use when they want to break into your home. They can use tools to manipulate your locks and gain access to your home without using a key. To prevent lock picking, you can use these simple tips:
- Install high-quality locks: Use high-quality deadbolt locks that are difficult to pick. Buy locks that have anti-pick pins, hardened steel bolts, and reinforced plates.
- Use a secondary locking mechanism: You can also use a secondary locking mechanism like door chains or a sliding bolt lock. These types of locks give you an extra layer of security and make it harder for burglars to gain entry.
- Use security cameras: Burglars don’t want to be caught on camera while lock-picking your door. Installing a security camera will help deter them from breaking into your home.
- Install an alarm system: Installing an alarm system that has motion detection is a good way to secure your home. This will help you know when an intruder tries to break into your home.
4. Social engineering
Burglars can use social engineering in different ways to break into your home. For instance, they can disguise themselves as a pizza delivery guy or repairman and try to convince you to let them into your home. Some may also pretend to be someone you know or trust, such as a neighbor or utility worker, to gain access. Here are tips you can use to prevent this:
- Always verify the identity of someone before allowing them into your home. Ensure you ask for their identification and confirm it from the relevant company.
- Don’t share personal information, such as your address or schedule, on social media or other public platforms.
- Install a security system with cameras and sensors to detect any suspicious activity.
- If you notice any suspicious movement around your neighborhood, ensure you alert the local authorities.
Let’s Help You Keep Your Home Safe
Understanding how burglars break into your home can help you take preventive measures. Your mind will be at peace when you know that your home is safe from burglars. Getting professional assistance is essential when it comes to your home security. They know the best types of locks and advanced security measures you can take to keep your family and property safe.
At Alcatraz Locksmith, we offer professional locksmith services in the city of Phoenix. We sell, install and maintain digital locks, manual locks, and security cameras at affordable rates. For many years we have maintained our top-notch services, exceeding our customer’s expectations. We have qualified customer agents who are ready to attend to you. Let’s help you keep your home safe. Reach out to us.