Sadly, this post is prompted by my neighbour’s recent break-in. They were away for a few days and came back to find their home ransacked.  A small number of valuables were taken.  They are wisely focusing on being grateful that no one was hurt, and that pets are safe. Despite this healthy, positive attitude, I imagine they are still feeling the sting of the intrusion.

TIPS TO DETER BREAK-INS

Keep a lived in look

Burglars are searching for easy marks and little resistance.  Maintaining the appearance of people in the home can be a deterrent.

Promote awareness among trusted neighbours

Build a safer neighbourhood by cultivating relationships with neighbours who can see your property. Contact neighbours on all sides.  Notify them when you’re going to be away and ask them to report anything that looks strange. Last year a neighbour’s alarm went off. I contacted them on their cell phone and found them to be in Florida.  Turns out it their cleaning service hadn’t been notified of the alarm code so it went off falsely, but they were reassured that they were being looked out for.

Optimize home security

In the most recent case, the home had security service stickers, but no alarm service in force. It may be worthwhile implementing a home security system. In our city, the costs are nearly covered by the reduction in insurance premiums, and if a break-in occurs while the alarm is engaged, our premiums are guaranteed not to rise.

Do not keep spare keys ‘hidden’ on the premises. Rather, consider keeping them with a neighbour.

Here are details on how to create secure windows and doors.


HOME SECURITY CHECKLIST

For a list to use every time you go away, download the attached Home Security Checklist.  Add relevant contact information to make it quick and easy to implement each activity.


WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE BREAKS IN WHILE YOU’RE AWAY

If you unfortunately experience a break-in, here are things you should keep in mind, courtesy of Toronto Police Services:

  • DO NOT enter – the criminal may still be inside
  • Use a neighbour’s phone [or your cell phone if you have it on you] and call the police
  • DO NOT touch anything or clean up until the police have inspected for evidence
  • Note the licence number of any suspicious vehicle
  • Note the description of any suspicious person(s)