Most break-ins aren’t random. Burglars look for easy targets. Some of your everyday habits might be signaling that your home is one of them. You may think that these habits are harmless, but they could put you, your family, and your home at risk. Here are five common things homeowners do that instantly draw the attention of thieves.
1. Keeping Your Garage Door Unlocked (or Open)
An open or unlocked garage can be a goldmine. Plus, it’s an easy way into the rest of the house. This is a really easy fix. Always lock interior garage doors, and don’t leave the garage open longer than necessary. You may also want to take additional safety steps like using a zip tie on your emergency door release or covering your garage windows. These additional steps will help deter burglars from using your garage as a break-in point.
2. Broadcasting Your Routine
Leaving the house at the same time every day? Burglars notice patterns, especially when you’re gone like clockwork. Try to vary your routine when possible. You can also install cameras or smart lighting to make your schedule less obvious. If you’re going on vacation, don’t post it on social media in real time. Smart thieves will be watching for indicators that you’re not at home, even online.
3. Leaving Tools or Ladders Outside
Left your ladder out after cleaning gutters? Congratulations, you just gave a burglar access to your second-story window. Always lock up ladders, tools, or anything that could be used to break in. That means securing your shed, too. Even outdoor furniture shouldn’t be tall enough to allow burglars to reach your windows. Thinking like a thief will help you secure the exterior of your home better.
4. Leaving Lights On 24/7
You might think a constantly lit house looks occupied, but burglars know that’s not normal behavior. It can actually indicate no one is home to turn them off. Instead, use timers or smart bulbs to create a natural-looking lighting pattern. Or ask a neighbor to turn your lights on and off when you’re away.
5. Hiding a Key Outside
That fake rock or flowerpot hiding your spare key isn’t fooling anyone. Burglars know all the usual spots and will check them first. Try to give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or use a lockbox with a code. That hidden key might save you one day, but it could also save a burglar the trouble of breaking in. The worst that could happen is you’ll have to call a locksmith one day. That’s much better than losing valuables in a home invasion.
Breaking Habits Burglars Look For
Burglars look for patterns, shortcuts, and vulnerabilities. Small habits, like leaving mail to pile up or oversharing online, can make your home a target without you realizing it. A few simple changes can make a big difference in keeping your home safe and less inviting to intruders.
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