When Do Most Burglaries Occur?

Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, living alone or with your family, we are all vulnerable to a potential burglary. The first step in keeping burglars at bay is understanding more about them and how they operate. Knowing when burglaries are most likely to occur, how long they last and what types of homes they target can help you take proactive steps to protect your home and loved ones.

When do most burglaries take place?

Though burglaries can occur any time of day, they’re more likely to happen when the people living in the home are away at work or school. This makes it easier for the burglar to enter the home without confrontation or being noticed. Burglaries also often occur during the summer months. With more people outside, away on vacation, and kids running about the neighborhood, doors (including garage doors) are left open and/or left unlocked, leaving empty for long periods.  

Who is a typical home invader?

No two burglars are the same, but their motivations and intentions are generally the same. Unlike what we may see in movies, burglars are less likely to stake out certain houses for a long period or stage an elaborate heist. Instead, burglars are more likely to look for homes that are empty and vulnerable, with no one home, and easy to access. Burglars don’t want to get caught. They are looking for a home they can get into and get out of quickly (usually, around ten minutes maximum). 

What items do intruders target?

Burglars generally seek items that are valuable, easily portable, and can be sold quickly. Some common targets include:

• Cash, credit cards, jewelry, and valuable electronics

• Firearms

• Prescription medications

• Personal information such as passports, social security cards, and bank statements

The best way to protect these items is to hide them in a secure place – whether in a locked safe, a hidden drawer or in a place equipped with an entry sensor or a motion sensor so that you are alerted if anyone comes near or attempts to trespass. 

What steps can I take to prevent a burglary?

Now that you know more about when burglaries occur, who burglars typically are and what they typically search for, there are steps you can take to try and prevent a burglary from happening as much as possible:

• Use outdoor lighting: Well-lit exteriors can deter burglars by eliminating potential hiding spots and increasing the visibility of your property.

• Secure doors and windows: To make it more difficult for burglars to gain access, reinforce entry points with sturdy locks/smart locks, deadbolts, sensors, and break-glass sensors on windows.

• Use cameras: Having an outdoor security camera and video doorbell will usually make a burglar think twice. But if they still attempt entry, a smart home security system will notify you of an intruder.

• Maintain the appearance of an occupied home: Use timers to turn lights on and off, stop mail delivery during vacations, and ask neighbors to keep an eye on your property.

• Consider getting a pet: Getting a pet is a big commitment and not one that should be taken lightly, but the old “Beware of Dog” sign in the window—with an accompanying big bark—tends to send burglars to the other side of the street. 

• Install a reliable home security system: A home security system is one of the best ways to keep your home secure whether you’re in it or away!

Remember, there are never guarantees, but these basic security measures can go a long way! SimpliSafe offers a wide range of security solutions, including motion sensors, video surveillance, entry sensors, and much more. And, with 24/7 professional monitoring, you’ll have that extra protection in case of a burglary or attempted burglary. With SimpliSafe, you can protect your home and loved ones, even when you're away. Give yourself peace of mind with a state-of-the-art home security system from SimpliSafe.