In the Lone Star State, Dallas police are warning residents in Old East Dallas about a burglar who has been breaking into homes at night. They’re distributing the following tips to assess a home’s security.
• Can a burglar’s access to the home be easily hidden? Are there high hedges that block windows? On the rear of the home, does a fence block sightlines of doors and windows?
• At night, is there enough outside lighting to see the perimeter of the home?
• Is there an alarm in the home? If a burglar eyes an alarm company sign or stickers, it may be a deterrent.
• What’s in the trash? Is the box from the new 60-inch plasma TV prominently displayed on the curb?
• Open garage doors reveal property to steal and tools to use for this and future burglaries. Attached garages also provide easy access to the home.
• Burglars don’t like dogs. Even small dogs with big barks make a home a little less attractive.
• Most homes have at least one window that the owner has forgotten to lock. Opening a door or window makes a lot less noise than breaking glass.
• Where is the spare key? Burglars know all the hiding spots.
• Think like a burglar. Ask yourself, “What would a burglar find when he looks at my house that would be inviting?”
