Think Like A Burglar - What Does an Easy Target Look Like?

Burglars are out there, they know what to look for and are looking for an easy target. According to the FBI a burglar enters a home every 11 seconds. Because of the hard economic times that number is on the rise. Here is a list of the top things burglars look for when combing for an easy target.

1. Open Windows - An open window is an invitation for vandalism. Burglars look for patterns. If they know a house that is vacant during the day they will jump on the opportunity when they spot a windows that may have been forgotten. Get in the habit of checking all windows before you leave and before bedtime. How to Beef up Your Window Security

2. Open Garage Doors - Open garage doors are also an easy target. Often times people leave the garage door open when running out for a quick errand. Remember it only takes a few minutes to enter your home and clean it out. It is easy to forget to lock the door between the garage and house. Even if you lock the door between the garage and house these doors are usually very cheap and often times don't have a deadbolt lock and can be kicked in easily.

3. No signs of Alarms or Surveillance - Burglars are more likely to break into property that has no signs of a home security systems or surveillance system. Burglars don't want to deal with a loud annoying alarm. Most alarm companies provide decals and signs that state your property is protected. Even if you don't have an alarm or security system it is a good idea to place the signs and decals in your yard or on your windows.

5. Sliding Glass Doors - Experienced burglars know that patio doors such as sliding glass doors and french doors tend to have weak locks and latches. They also know that sliding glass doors can be lifted off their track and removed if they are old or poorly adjusted. There are plenty of secondary sliding glass door locks available at hardware stores. You can also place a block of wood in the track to prevent the door from being opened.

6. Old and Weak Door Frames - Weak and easy to bust down door frames (door jams) are easy to spot. Making sure the door frame is solid is as important as having a good lock. Make sure your door frames are constructed of hard wood that will not split. A deadbold lock is only as strong as the frame it extends to. How to Beef up Your Door Security.

7. Doggy Doors - Although Doggy doors are wonderful they can be very appealing to a thief. The bigger the doggy door the better for a burgler. Purchase the type of doggy door that locks when it is not needed. If you have a big dog there are ways to hide a doggy door behind a dog house along a wall of the house rather than having it at the door. More on Home Security Systems

8. No signs of Cameras - Security Cameras watching your property can be very intimidating to criminals. Outdoor security cameras are vandal proof so most criminals will not mess with them. It is a good idea to have them on entry points around your home. Placing a few dummy cameras is also a good idea. They are available in many electronic stores, hardware stores and online. They are easy for Do it your selfers to install or you can them have professionally installed by a security company. More On Security Camera Systems

9. Living Alone - When you live alone there are dangerous situations that you need to be aware of and many strategies to learn to keep yourself safe.First of try to make it look like there are others living with you. Try not to ever mention in public that you live alone. Making a comment to coworkers, to the clerk at the grocery store or mentioning it to a repairman in your home make yourself an easy target. Get in the habit of closing curtains at night. Leaving curtains open draws attention and advertises that you are alone. More Strategies For Living Alone.

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