Burglars primarily break into windows by exploiting unlocked latches, prying open sashes with simple tools, or shattering the glass. The majority of intruders target ground-floor windows hidden by landscaping, using stealth and quick tactics to avoid making loud noises.
Most burglars will attempt to break in through the quickest, easiest, least visible and noisy route - usually a ground floor rear window. Other at-risk windows are those upstairs with access from a flat roof or drainpipe. Fit all windows with locks that use keys and make sure these are used.
Sleeping with windows open can introduce outdoor pollutants, allergens, and noise that disrupt rest. It also creates security vulnerabilities and allows pests inside. Furthermore, uncontrolled drafts can cause muscle stiffness and dry out your nasal passages.
Which homes do burglars target?
Most home burglaries occur between 10 am and 3 pm.
However, an investigative report out of Portland for KGW News found that some burglars preferred the specific window of 12:30 to 2:30 pm because they wouldn't be interrupted by someone coming home for lunch and school would still be in session.
Burglars hate anything that makes a break-in noisy, time-consuming, or highly visible. Criminals look for the path of least resistance; if a target requires too much effort or poses a high risk of getting caught, they will simply move on to an easier home.
The average burglar has only two options for entering your residence: doors and windows. Examine your entry points and see how well they would stand up to a thief. Doors and windows can be fashionably secured with ornate, yet sturdy, door handles and locks.
A good place to hide valuables could be the entrance area, for example, as it is often overlooked. An unused fireplace can also be used as a hiding place: simply remove the cover, place valuables inside and then close it again. It is unlikely that a thief will look there.
Perfume and fragrance: costly products that are relatively easy to steal. Small electrical goods and accessories: electric toothbrushes, smart speakers, iPads, headphones, shavers, data sticks. Smartphones are slightly less likely to be stolen because of robust security devices.
Robbers and burglars are primarily deterred by the fear of getting caught, difficulty of entry, and lack of easy reward. The most effective deterrents include:
The German practice of opening windows is called Lüften (literally "airing out"). It involves throwing windows completely wide open for 5 to 10 minutes at least once or twice a day to create a cross-draft, quickly exchanging stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air.
Yes, spiders can easily enter your windows at night, especially when windows are left open or lack proper screens. They are nocturnal hunters and are attracted to the area because interior lights draw in flying insects, providing a perfect, easy-to-access buffet.
To secure open windows at night, block the window from opening more than 4 to 6 inches. Use physical stoppers like a cut wooden dowel, install heavy-duty steel window restrictors, or apply stick-on vibration alarms to deter intruders. This allows fresh air in while preventing someone from climbing through.
Avoid keeping your items in the prime spots like your master bedroom, bedroom closet, desk drawer in your study room, your jewelry box, or the cabinet in the hallway. These are the most common places where burglars search for these items.
People refuse to update to Windows 11 primarily due to strict hardware requirements that force expensive new PC purchases, a reluctance to give up local accounts for Microsoft accounts, and a desire to avoid bloated AI features. Others simply prefer the familiar interface and stability of Windows 10.
People put tape on windows during storms to keep broken glass from scattering. However, experts like the Hurricane Research Division warn that this is a dangerous myth that offers zero protection against wind and flying debris.
Robberies happen in both daytime and nighttime. It depends upon the location, situation, human activity around the target, and the area of interest where the burglars want to strike. Specific hours of robberies usually fall between 9 p.m. to 12 p.m. and 4 a.m. to 6 a.m.
New Mexico has the highest rate of break-ins (burglaries) in the United States, recording upwards of 500 to 600 incidents per 100,000 residents depending on the recent annual reporting. By total volume, California reports the highest number of break-ins nationwide due to its massive population.
Doors and windows are the most common entry points for burglars, so areas near these entry points are often the first places they look for any valuables. Burglars also know many homeowners hide their house key near the front door, making it easier for them to break in within minutes or even seconds.
Key Factors That Make Homes Attractive to Burglars
Burglars often look for: Lack of visible security: No cameras, alarms, or yard signs suggest easy entry. Overgrown landscaping and poor lighting: Tall bushes and dark areas give cover for criminals.
Finding ways to make it look like you're at home even when you're not is a great way to deter burglars. But it's also important to try to change up your routine every so often for the times you are home. Though burglars don't always stake out homes before they choose to break in, it does happen.
Leaving a light on at night can deter burglars by eliminating dark hiding spots, but leaving the same light burning 24/7 can actually signal that you are not home. Security experts recommend specific lighting habits to maximize your home's safety:
5 Secrets burglars don't want you to know
On average, a burglar spends 8 to 12 minutes inside a house. They typically gain entry in less than a minute by kicking in a door or smashing a window and prioritize grabbing high-value, easily transportable items before quickly fleeing to avoid police detection.
There is a common saying among the fraud prevenƟon sites called the 10-10-80 rule: 10% will never steal, 10% will steal, and 80% will go either way depending on the circumstances.