Burglary is largely a crime of opportunity. Most burglars avoid homes that look occupied, well-secured, and watched. By removing easy opportunities, you dramatically lower your risk.
Secure the Basics
- Lock everything: Doors and windows, every time — a surprising number of burglaries involve no forced entry.
- Reinforce doors: Solid-core doors and strong strike plates resist kicks.
- Add lighting: Motion-activated lights remove the cover of darkness.
- Trim landscaping: Don't give intruders places to hide near entrances.
Make It Look Occupied
Burglars prefer empty homes. Use timers on lights, pause mail delivery when traveling, and avoid posting vacation plans publicly. A home that looks lived-in is far less appealing.
Use Visible Deterrents
Security cameras and alarm signage work — many burglars admit they skip homes with visible cameras. Learn more about whether security cameras deter crime and how to use them well.
Lean on Your Community
Neighbors who watch out for each other are one of the best defenses. Join or start a community crime watch and enable real-time alerts so you know when break-ins happen nearby and can respond before you are next.
Stay Informed. Stay Safe.
Crime Stop gives you real-time crime reports, interactive maps, and safety alerts for over 100 US cities. Join your community today.
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