Nearly 5,000 properties are burglarized daily in the U.S. — that’s four homes and businesses every minute. The average monetary loss per burglary is roughly $3,000. While that may not sound like a lot, it doesn’t include irreplaceable items, along with the emotional distress that can result in crime victims. For business owners, the threat is even more present. A burglar could also take sensitive company documents that could compromise your organization. There’s good news you should know. You don’t have to wait around in fear that a burglary will happen. Almost 90% of burglaries are preventable, by some estimates. Knowing how burglars break in and how they choose their targets can keep you safe in the long run.
How Burglars Break In
When you picture a burglar, do you imagine someone sneaking in in the middle of the night, smashing a glass window or door to gain access? While this is undoubtedly the case for some crimes, you might be surprised to learn that a large number of burglaries occur during the daytime. You’re at risk any time your facility is unoccupied. Additionally, most burglars look for unlocked doors and open windows. A good number of crimes occur because someone forgot to secure a point of entry. Some burglars will break windows or kick in doors, but a surprising number of burglaries happen because it’s easy for a criminal to get in. If front doors and windows are secured, a burglar may attempt a back door. Most burglaries happen on the first floor of a building, although some burglars may try to enter through a second-story window.
Avoid Being A Target
Lock Your Doors: The simplest way to avoid a burglary is also one of the most effective. Make a habit of locking your doors and ensuring windows are closed whenever you leave the property. If you’re searching for an easy method to deter criminals, this is the way to go. Train your employees to lock up, too.
Don’t Advertise Absences: While you may need to notify customers of holiday and business closures, don’t advertise that no one will be on the property unless you have to. Burglaries are often crimes of opportunity, and you put a target on your business when you make it clear that your building will be unattended.
Add Motion-Activated Lights: If someone is sneaking around on your property, motion-activated lights are a straightforward tool that can scare them off. These lights use special sensors that detect movement. When triggered, they flood the area with bright light, which serves as a deterrent to criminals.
Install A Security System: If you don’t have a business security system, it’s time to consider one. Burglars are three times more likely to target buildings without security systems. When you consider how burglars break in, devising a security strategy makes sense and pays off in the long run.
If you want a security system but don’t know where to start, call Integrated Security Consultants today. ISC is a national security firm headquartered in Tampa Bay, Fla. Our team prioritizes people, property, and profits, all while upholding our values of Integrity, Solutions, and Customer Service. You don’t have to be vulnerable to burglars and other criminals. Call us today at 813-254-0033 or contact us online to learn how our company can serve your needs.