People often have the notion that burglars are people who wear black stocking caps over their faces and sneak around houses at night. However, most of the time, burglary in the modern day is much different from this old stereotype.
Here are some facts you need to know based on recent home invasion statistics, along with ways on how to secure your belongings and property against burglars.
Burglary Facts
1. Most burglaries happen mid-day
Based on a 2016 burglary survey, most burglaries happen between 12 noon to 4 o’clock in the afternoon. Nighttime burglaries occur between 10 o’clock in the evening and 6o’clock in the morning, which account for around 17% of burglaries in the country.
This is because most burglars are aware that people work during the day. They can walk around more freely in an apartment complex or neighborhood during the day than at night.
2. Burglary often occurs during summer
Normally, the number of burglaries increase to around 10% in the country during the months of June to August. This is due to the fact that the days are usually longer during summer and more daylight hours means that burglars have more opportunity to be on the loose around the neighborhood.
3. Rural states are more prone to burglary compared to metropolitan states
New Mexico, which is a rural state, is regarded as the state that has the most number of burglaries in the US. Other rural states where burglaries frequently occur are Arkansas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Mississippi. New York and California, being metropolitan states, are at the bottom of the list in terms of burglary.
4. Based on the average rate, a burglary occurs every 23 seconds in the US
Based on 2017 Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) crime statistics, three burglaries occur every minute in the US. This is the reason why the US has been regarded as the second-most frequent country where crime and theft happen. In total, around 3,757 burglaries happen in the US every day.
5. An average burglary victim loses at least $2,416
Based on the FBI statistics, the total loss incurred from burglary equates to two months of mortgage or rent, or two weeks’ worth of wages. If you are living paycheck to paycheck, this can be quite a challenging loss, as a burglary can have debilitating effects on your income and lifestyle.
Ways to Prevent Burglary
1. Keep your doors locked at all times.
During the day, you should lock your doors when you are at home, especially if you are napping, working, or doing any activity that will consume your full attention. You may also leave a car parked in any noticeable area outside.
2. Watch for suspicious activity every time
Never let your guard down even if the weather is fair, especially in summer. Always be on the lookout for suspicious activity in the neighborhood such as strange people or cars passing by your home, especially if you live in a low-traffic area.
3. Install durable locks or an alarm system for added security
Curtains, door jammers, sturdy locks, and a wireless alarm system can be installed to aid in deterring burglars and decrease the risk of burglary in your home.
4. Store expensive equipment out of sight
The probability of being a target for burglars can be lessened if you store expensive equipment like ATVs and boats out of sight. You can also utilize landscaping and fencing to deter burglars from targeting the rear of your house. Advertise your guard dog or security system by posting warning stickers and signs in your front or back yard to dissuade possible burglars.
5. Obtain homeowner’s insurance for burglary
It is essential to have insurance for homeowners and renters as protection against loss due to burglars.
The figures on burglary are enough proof that it should not be taken lightly. Remember to always be vigilant, make sure your security system works, and keep the tips mentioned above in mind to keep burglars at bay.
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