What You need to know about your security
- Home security statistics show burglars will usually bypass a house if it requires too much effort, skill, or tools than they possess
- Most break-ins are through the front or back doors
- Security can be increased by inserting a wooden dowel or stick into sliding glass door tracks to prevent movement
- Every 15 seconds a home falls victim to burglary
- Burglary is usually committed by males under the age of 25
- 70% of burglars use some level of force, although their preference is gaining quick access without drawing attention
- 90% of burglaries are unsolved
- Only 30% of homes have security systems
- In 2012, an estimated 2,103,787 homes were burglarized
- In 2012, the average amount of money stolen per home was $2,230
- Most knob locks can be easily open using credit cards
- More burglaries occur during the summer
- Even small, noisy dogs can scare a burglar away
- 30% of burglaries are through an open or unlocked window or door
- 66% of burglaries are residential
- Renters are at the same risk of burglary as home owners
- Homes lacking security systems are up to 300% more likely to be burglarized
- 2,500+ cars are stolen every day… roughly 2 cars a minute
- 2.5 million+ home intrusions occur each year
- 1 out of 3 residential assaults are a result of burglary
- 85% of break-ins are from non-professionals who are usually more desperate and dangerous
- Security provides most people with peace of mind
- Police only clear about 13% of all reported burglaries due to lack of witnesses or physical evidence
- Break-ins occur most often during the daytime when the residents are at work or school
- The weakest point of entry is usually the lock strike plate
- 6 out of 7 professional burglars are still on the job year after year
- The most common method of forced entry is simply kicking down the door
- Homeowners often make their home selection easy for thieves by failing to take simple precautions