Though they can be difficult to identify there are usually subtle signs indicating our homes are being targeted by burglars. It’s never nice to know that someone unwanted has been through our peaceful abode. Sometimes the damage can be detrimental to us. It is important to understand that burglars have a strong tendency to scope out a neighbourhood or a particular home in detail before planning their attacks. Remaining vigilant is a must. Here a three potential signs that your home could be targeted.
Strange vehicles
Cars and vans with dark tinted windows are most frequently used in burglaries. Strange vehicles continuously doing rounds of a street or neighbourhood at odd times can be a clear sign that something is out of the ordinary. To initially find a suitable target burglars will identify the weakest homes. Once identified you may find that these vehicles are then parked nearby or simply continue to return during random periods of the day and night. There main aim is to identify the occupant’s routines. The neighbourhood watch should remain vigilant and inform one another of their suspicions.
Individuals out of place
An individual jogging or walking down the street for exercise purposes is usually dressed in suitable exercise attire i.e. they fit the profile of a jogger. Their intentions are clearly displayed to any onlooker; likewise someone walking their dog will be nicely wrapped up and casually walking. Most individuals act in a manner appropriate to their intentions and burglars are no different. If you find an individual has suddenly started to take walks down your street paying close attention to yours and other homes then you can be sure they are not there to simply stretch their legs. It’s important to observe their actions and identify the patterns or frequency of their stroll down your street. If they walk slowly taking particular care to intently observe surrounding areas during different periods of the day then take precautions as they may be looking for patterns and vulnerabilities in your routine.
Individuals approaching your home
To invite a stranger into your home under their pretence of offering a service or doing a job can be very dangerous. We often find that burglars use a range of aliases to enter a home and get a better view from the inside. They come in the form of handy men, door to door sales people and even police. They take the opportunity
to enter a home and identify the best possible targets. It’s very important that you always ask for identification. If you find that an individual has made a second return to your home without being invited and with no particular reason then you can be pretty confident they returned assuming you would not be home. They will not hesitate to quickly leave however details of the encounter should be passed on to the police and the neighbourhood watch as suspicious activity.
Deterring a burglar is the best way to ensure you’re not burgled.
There is no way to guarantee that your home will not be burgled. However appropriate steps can be taken to substantially reduce that risk. Remaining observant is one of the simplest ways to avert a burglary. Close communication with your neighbours ensures collectively you’re all vigilant together.
Burglars have a tendency to strike when your home is empty. Remaining observant must be matched by not giving away too much information. Take special care not to leave an obvious routine or pattern for potential burglars to use against you. According to the London Metropolitan Police lighting is the strongest measure that deters burglars. Ensure your home is well lit when you’re away with the police approved light switch timer or the TV Simulator.