As regular, kind-hearted, law-abiding citizens, we don’t often imagine what goes on in the minds of the type of people who would break into our homes and steal our possessions or, even worse, harm us and those we love. While it may be difficult to put yourself into the shoes of the type of person who would commit such a crime, understanding how an intruder thinks could be a valuable first step toward stopping them from ever making their way into your home. Learn these 6 secrets of the intruding trade to make sure your home and family are well protected.

They’d rather stay away from high-security households.

 

Burglars prefer to target properties that are weak and vulnerable. What does this mean? It means that it’s a house with minimal security and, ideally, very few barriers between the intruder and your valuables. This means that if you invest in wireless security systems and advertise the fact that you have a strong security team that’s got your back, a burglar is far less likely to want to approach your home.

They love a lush garden.

 

You might like the look of your plentiful bushes, trees, and flower patches in your garden, but, unfortunately, so do burglars. The more lush vegetation your yard provides, the easier it will be for a burglar to hide away until they decide the moment is right to make their move. Bushes can also provide a great spot for burglars to bide their time and watch your movements so that they can get to know your schedule better and discover when your home is left unprotected.

They don’t want to waste time.

 

The last thing a burglar wants to do if they gain entry into your home is to take their time dawdling and risk getting caught. This means that making valuable items more difficult to find could save you a fortune if an intruder does get in because they won’t have much time to search. It’s also a great reason to bolt down a safe if you have one, as a burglar is far more likely to make a run for it with the safe than to hang around trying out different combinations.

They’re a big fan of lax window security.

 

Smashing a window is a real hassle for a burglar as it easily lets neighbours, security companies, and even you sleeping in your bed know that they’ve arrived. Just keeping your windows securely locked at all times is a simple but crucial way to deter criminals.

They look out for families who are off on a holiday.

 

Planning a big trip anytime soon? If a burglar notices that you’ve decided to take a break, they may see it as the perfect moment to attempt to gain access to your home while nobody is around to stop them. This is another good reason to have a strong security system in place and your alarms on at all times - especially while you’re away.

They know the usual hiding spots.

 

You may think your spare key hiding spot under that flower pot is very discreet, but burglars are well aware of those go-to hiding spots. Leave a second set of keys with a trusted neighbour instead or find a spot that nobody would ever consider.