The term theft can be described as: The wrongful taking of someone else’s property. The experience of something being stolen is not only very annoying because of missing things, but also often causes a bad feeling. This is certainly the case with theft from a home. The idea that someone has been in the house who has nothing to do with it is experienced by most who experience that as very unpleasant. But there are many possible measures that make it more difficult or impossible for thieves to enter a house.
Simple measures can help
Ninety percent of burglaries are committed by casual thieves who, on average, strike within three minutes. But simple measures can already be a barrier for thieves. Prevent that to make it easy for them. For example, it is unwise to report extensively and everywhere that you are going on holiday. After all, people also listen to the butcher and the greengrocer. Notifications on social media are also not only read by family, friends and acquaintances. Where possible, it is good to inform the local police officer that the house will not be occupied for a certain period; which is only possible in a limited number of places. In case of extended absence, try to arrange for a gardener to keep the appearance around the house as normal.
Often only a matter of minutes
Burglars take an average of only thirty seconds to enter. According to research, however, they give up after about three minutes if they have tried in vain to break open a window or door. But it is also known that they can get their loot within three minutes if they can enter. This is certainly the case if the items are easily accessible, such as a laptop on a desk, jewelery in plain sight or other valuables for the grab.
Measures to prevent home theft
Theft mainly occurs with products that can be (relatively) easily taken along. Taking that with you starts with gaining access to the product and ends with moving it to another location. As far as access is concerned, it is important to secure it. Various measures are possible that make it more difficult for theft offenders to approach or enter a home or building.
Close properly
Of course it is important that everything is closed properly. Good hinges and locks are a prerequisite and that applies to all doors and windows. Good locks meet the Police Seal of Safe Living.
Do not forget
But do not forget to close the garage doors and the window of the toilet and any skylight.
Short way
It is also wise to close everything, even when it comes to a visit to the neighbors or shopping. Also close the front door to pick up something outside or take out the trash can or take something to the neighbors.
View of doors
Those who work or stay in the garden with insufficient view of certain doors of the house can also close them better.
Don’t make it easier
There must also be nothing around the house that makes it easier for thieves to get to a higher floor, for example, such as a ladder or a garbage can close to a flat roof. Of course, possible escape routes may contain obstacles to make it more difficult to get away quickly with the stolen goods. For example, anything that makes it more difficult for thieves can help prevent burglaries.
Avoid by deterrence
Things that can also help to prevent burglary, such as a sudden light that starts. Two times more burglaries are committed in the dark than in the light. Thieves can hide more easily in the dark. More extensive outdoor lighting helps to prevent burglaries or to make thieves look for an easier object.
Create the impression that residents are present
A house can better give the impression that residents are present. In any case, do not stick a note on the duration with, for example, the message to return home at a certain time. Lamps can be connected to a timer to make it look like someone is home. Sometimes even having audio equipment play can help.
Be careful with keys
Avoid the so-called fishing method where (by means of a piece of iron wire) the door lock can be opened through the letterbox. A safe method is to attach an extra lock to the door or to shield the letterbox in such a way that the lock cannot be reached. Do not leave a key on the inside of the door, especially if it can be reached via the letterbox. A doormat or a flower pot is also not a convenient place to hide a key for roommates who do not have a key with them.
Police investigation after reporting home theft
After a theft has been reported, the police investigation may benefit if certain measures have been taken. For example, it is good to engrave valuables with, for example, the postcode number and house number. Also take pictures of those things or valuable paintings. Write down the brands, types and serial numbers of the devices. Register all items for which special registration cards are available such as:
- Collective registration card: For listing details of all valuables, equipment, documents, etc.
- Art and antiques registration card: For details of art and antiques that are in the house.
- Meter box card: This card can include absence due to vacation and the names of family members or others to be notified after a break-in.
