Repeat Burglaries

After your home is burglarized, you may feel shocked and violated. You didn't think it could happen to you, and maybe you don't think it will happen again. But this isn't the time to let down your guard.

Police tell us that many thieves will break into the same home a second time. They do so because they know it was easy the first time and they know you will be replacing items they stole with new merchandise. If they stole a 10 year-old stereo the first time, they may return to lift your brand new CD player next month.

Practice makes perfect. If it was easy for the thief to get in the first time, it will be even easier the second time. And a burglar who is faster and more efficient will generally take more items. Upgrade your locks and doors to make entry more difficult. Don't replace a broken door or lock with the same style or quality of hardware.

Change and reinforce your home's weakest point of entry - the point of forced entry. At the very least, if a burglar comes again, he will have to try another point of entry and may not be successful.

Engrave your name or an identifying number on your more valuable possessions so they can be returned to you if they are found by the police.

Even if the same burglar who broke into your home never returns, you should still take precautions. If one burglar was attracted to your home, others may also find it an appealing target.

Now's the time to take preventative security measures, from upgrading your locks or windows to installing an alarm. It will help ensure you're not victimized again.