The mistake that makes your house a target for burglars & two things that keep you safe, from a convicted thief
SMALL features in your home can be make or break when it comes to safety.
A convicted thief revealed the common mistake she'd look out for when "casing" properties.
In a Reddit , the unnamed user shared the details that would draw her to a home and the things that made her avoid others.
And since homes are more likely to become targets during the cold weather, now is the time to take action.
The 26-year-old described herself as a "former home burglar," revealing that she served two years of a three year sentence after being convicted.
After learning to cut hair while incarcerated, she got her certification when she was released and now works as a beautician.
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The original poster is now sharing her expertise to help people protect their homes from burglars.
She explained that she began breaking into problems when she was 18, homeless, and struggling with addiction issues.
The mum-of-one said she is now "very remorseful" about her past actions.
"I'm simply trying to add some insight and perspective," the Redditor said.
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She revealed the common move that would attract her to certain properties.
"The houses I looked at most were the ones that didn't have cars in front during the day," she explained.
This hinted that nobody was home, and if these properties also had a back entrance, they became the perfect target.
She added that "climbable windows were another big plus" when it came to breaking and entering.
"A decent amount of space between neighbors was a plus for me," the Redditor said.
On the other hand, small things can make a difference between your home staying secure or becoming a target.
"I avoided houses with dogs outside out of fear that it would bark and alert someone," she revealed.
How to protect your home from burglars
- Install a home security system:
- Consider alarms, CCTV cameras, and smart doorbells.
- Choose systems that allow remote monitoring via smartphone.
- Secure doors and windows:
- Ensure all doors and windows have robust locks.
- Use deadbolts and window locks for added security.
- Consider installing a peephole or door chain.
- Improve outdoor lighting:
- Install motion-sensor lights around your property.
- Ensure pathways, driveways, and entrances are well-lit.
- Maintain your garden:
- Keep hedges and shrubs trimmed to eliminate hiding spots.
- Store tools and ladders securely to prevent their use in break-ins.
- Use timers for lights:
- Set timers to turn lights on and off to give the impression someone is home.
- Consider using smart plugs to control appliances remotely.
- Secure garages and sheds:
- Ensure these areas are locked with strong padlocks.
- Store valuable items out of sight.
- Get to know your neighbours:
- Join or form a neighbourhood watch scheme.
- Encourage neighbours to keep an eye on each other's properties.
- Be cautious with social media:
- Avoid posting holiday plans or location updates online.
- Ensure privacy settings are secure to limit who can see your posts.
- Mark valuables with a UV pen:
- Use a UV pen to mark valuables with your postcode and house number.
- Register items with a property database for easier recovery if stolen.
- Consider installing a safe:
- Use a safe to store important documents and valuable items.
- Ensure the safe is securely bolted to the floor or wall.
- Review your home insurance:
- Check that your home insurance policy is up to date.
- Ensure it covers the value of your possessions.
- Conduct regular security checks:
- Periodically review and update your home security measures.
- Ensure all systems and locks are in good working order.
"If the house had cameras I would avoid them for obvious reasons, security cameras are a good deterrent."
The original poster added that leaving a TV on can also help give the illusion someone is home, making it "more likely to be left alone."
According to the thief, burglars are also more likely to target properties during the day.
"Night time hits are a work of fiction," she explained.
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She also added that most petty thieves are aware of common hiding spots for valuables, including inside books and in underwear drawers.
Instead, she recommended investing in a safe as attempting to open them is "too time consuming."
