Burglars Target Homes with Easy Access

Know the mind of your enemy. The adage sounds more like advice for the battlefield than for burglary prevention. But knowing the common motives and goals of burglars will help you devise a home security plan that keeps you and your family safe.

The Burglary Prevention Council reports that burglars fall into three categories: professional, semi-professional and amateur. Most burglaries are committed by amateurs, while professional burglars may be part of organized crime groups that target high-end items -- such as antique paintings or jewels.

Here are some tips for protecting your home and property from common burglaries:

• Consider installing a burglar alarm, whether it's a simple device with a siren or a monitored system. Amateur burglars seek quick and easy targets. They will not try to break into homes if they think they will be caught. Amateurs look for opportunity -- an open window or a door that is ajar.
• Semi-professional burglars case houses. They may drive back and forth for a week, or bicycle through a neighborhood to pick the "right" house -- a property that seems vulnerable to break-in or forced entry.
• Burglars don't waste time. Thefts occur in a matter of minutes, so lock your doors and arm your security system, even if you are leaving the house to drive your child to school or run a quick errand.