Stopping Burglars: 7 Dos and Don’ts

A burglary can be devastating. Having your home environment violated can leave lasting trauma, not to mention the cost of loss of items. Luckily, there are things you can do to help protect your property and keep your home safe. Read on to find out a few ways that may help to stop burglars and protect your belongings.

1. Don’t leave anything unlocked

Leaving windows and doors unlocked is an easy way for burglars to enter your home. While it may be tempting to leave things unlocked, especially if you don’t live in a city, it’s not worth the risk. Make sure that you always lock everything. If you have any gates to your back garden, keep these locked, too, along with any sheds.

2. Do have visible CCTV

If burglars think they might be caught, they’re less likely to try and break in. Having obvious CCTV with signs informing people that it’s there makes your property less attractive to burglars. If CCTV isn’t within your budget, you can install fake cameras that don’t actually record, but deter trespassers.

3. Don’t leave any valuables visible

Burglars want to get in and out as quickly as possible, and visible valuables help them do that. Keep all valuables out of sight, making it look like you have nothing to steal. Valuables on windowsills can sometimes be taken without need to ever fully enter your home, so never use your windowsills for important items.

4. Do replace old windows

Old, single glazed windows can be very easy to smash. Double or triple glazing put up more of a fight, making entry into your home more difficult. If you don’t want to fully replace your windows, secondary glazing can also be used to heighten security.

5. Don’t let your front hedge grow too high

While a tall hedge outside your front door may seem attractive for privacy, it actually gives burglars the perfect cover. Having a front door that’s visible to your neighbours will make it harder for burglars to sneak up to your door and get inside.

6. Do get a dog

Dogs aren’t just cute members of the family. They’re fiercely protective and territorial animals, and are prone to barking or growling at unknown people. This makes them excellent at warning you about burglars or scaring them away.

7. Don’t let strangers into your home

A common method of burglary involves pretending to be from a utility company or in need of help, then stealing from you once they enter your home. When answering the door, use the viewfinder to assess the person on the other side, and leave the chain across if you’re unsure. Don’t be afraid to ask people for ID, as genuine workers won’t mind these checks.

Report a crime anonymously

If you have information about a crime but you’re concerned about anonymity, Crime Stoppers Bermuda can help. Use our online form or call us on 800-8477 to submit information with complete confidentiality.