3 Home Security Myths it’s Time to Stop Believing by 2021

If you’re like most people, home security is one of your biggest concerns – and it should be, because residential theft makes up more than 70 percent of all theft.
Unfortunately, though, people are stuck on believing a handful of home security myths that couldn’t be farther from the truth. So what are they? This guide explains.

Believing some of the biggest myths about home security can actually make your home and your property less safe. Check out these three common myths people still believe:

Most burglaries happen at night or when the homeowner is home.
Most break-ins involve forced entry.
Alarm system signs and “Beware of Dog” signs work to deter criminals.

Here’s a closer look at each (and why they’re wrong).

Home Security Myth #1: Most Burglaries Happen at Night or When the Homeowner is Home

Most burglars aren’t as advanced as Scott Lang in the Marvel film Ant Man, but they’re not stupid – and they definitely don’t want to be caught red-handed in your home. That’s why most burglaries occur during the day, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when robbers know that nobody is likely to be home. Another thing: the average burglary lasts only 8 to 12 minutes. That means most burglars will be in and out of the home before neighbors notice; and even if neighbors do notice, that’s typically faster than police can respond. The bottom line is that burglars want to be sneaky and fast, so they’re unlikely to break in while you’re at home sleeping.

Home Security Myth #2: Most Break-Ins Involve Forced Entry

Because most burglars will do anything to keep attention away from themselves, they’re unlikely to shatter a window or sliding glass door to get in. Instead, they’ll look for weaknesses in your security – and that’s usually done by sitting and watching for a while. A burglar could learn that you always leave your sliding glass door unlocked after you take your dog for a morning walk, for example, and that you rarely remember to lock it when you leave for work. Many burglars will spend a significant amount of time studying the neighborhood, your home and your schedule to determine how likely they are to get away with stealing your stuff.

Home Security Myth #3: Alarm System Signs and “Beware of Dog” Signs Work to Deter Criminals

You’ve seen alarm system signs and “Beware of Dog” signs at the hardware store, haven’t you? Criminals have, too, so they know that often, there aren’t any teeth behind them (figuratively or literally). On the other hand, if a criminal sees that you have a big, unfriendly looking pooch in your home, that’s a good deterrent. But the fact is that most dogs are friendly and – you know it as well as we do – can be bribed with treats.

How Can You Protect Your Home?

Investing in a good alarm system and following good home security habits are the two best things you can do to protect your home. Lock up when you leave, install motion-sensor lights and set up security cameras if you’re concerned. Smart home technology like automatic locks, garage door openers and light switches are typically worthwhile investments, too.

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