10 Things Burglars Steal and Where They Look
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Burglars often target homes looking for valuable items, and the first step in keeping your belongings safe is knowing where they will search and what items most appeal to them. Many people think their valuables are well-hidden, but burglars have tricks to find them.
This guide highlights ten common things burglars take and the spots they usually check first. Staying informed can help you take simple steps to secure your home and keep your possessions safe from theft.
Electronics
Electronics are usually the first things burglars think of when they think of electronics. These items are valuable and easy to sell, making them a prime target for thieves. The most common electronics stolen include laptops, tablets, smartphones, and gaming consoles.
To keep your electronics safe, avoid leaving them in plain sight where they can be easily spotted outside your home. Keep them locked up in a secure area or install a security system with cameras to deter potential thieves.
Jewelry
Jewelry is another top target for burglars due to its small size and high value. Common items taken include rings, necklaces, watches, and bracelets. Burglars will often check dressers, closets, and jewelry boxes for these items. Invest in a safe or store it in an unexpected location, like a fake food container in the kitchen or a book-shaped box on a bookshelf.
Cash
Cash appeals to thieves as it can be easily converted into other goods or used immediately. They may look for cash in prominent places like wallets and purses but also check less likely spots such as under mattresses or inside clothing pockets. Avoid keeping large sums of money at home. Instead, keep only a small amount for emergencies and use a bank or safe deposit box for the rest.
Prescription Medications
Prescription medications are another easy target for burglars. They may sell them on the black market or use them themselves. These items are often found in medicine cabinets, so consider storing them in a less prominent place, like a safe or locked drawer.
Collectibles and Antiques
Collectibles and antiques can be worth a significant amount of money, making them an attractive target for thieves. Displaying these items in front of windows can make your home an easy target. Keep them out of sight or invest in security measures like cameras or alarms to deter potential burglars.
Credit Card and Identification Information
Burglars can use credit card and identification information to make fraudulent purchases or steal your identity. They may search for this information in wallets, purses, and mail. All your sensitive documents should be locked in a safe or hidden in an unexpected location.
Tools and Equipment
Tools and equipment, especially those used for outdoor work, can be easily resold by burglars. They may check garages, sheds, and outdoor storage areas for these items. Keep them locked up or invest in a secure storage unit to prevent thieves from accessing them.
Firearms
Burglars seek guns because they can be sold for a large profit. They may check common hiding spots under the bed or in closets but also look for safes and gun cabinets. To prevent your firearms from being stolen, invest in a high-quality safe and keep it locked.
Luxury Items
Luxury items such as designer clothing, handbags, and watches are also on burglars’ radar. They may look for these items in closets or drawers, so avoid leaving them in plain sight. You should always keep expensive items in a locked safe or hidden in an unpredictable location.
Family Heirlooms
If you own family heirlooms, be aware that these items may be at risk of burglary. Antique furniture, artwork, and other heirloom pieces can hold significant sentimental or monetary value for thieves. Never keep them in plain sight, and invest in a secure storage unit or safe to protect them.
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