Ghosts, goblins, zombies—it’s that time of the year for all things spooky.
But, what if we told you that some of the scariest visitors won’t be donning a costume, or limiting their presence to one month a year?
Read on for three scary truths about home robberies that are sure to haunt you this Halloween.
1. One in 35 Will Fall Victim to a Property Crime
According to 2012 FBI Crime Statistics, the rate of property crimes (which includes burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft and arson) is 2.9% or 2,859.2 offenses per 100,000 inhabitants.
In simpler terms: imagine you live on a street with 35 homes. Based on the FBI’s rate, you or one of your neighbors will fall victim to property crime each year.
2. More Is at Risk Than Your Possessions
When you think of a home burglary, you likely associate it with loss of goods or cash. However, if a member of your household is home during the event, the threat may escalate to include physical harm.
A Department of Justice study of household burglaries from 2003-2007 found that 7% result in some form of violent victimization. Sixty-five percent of the time, the victim knew the offender; a firearm was involved 12% of the time.
3. A Burglar May Be Lurking—Undetected
It’s a common practice for burglars to scout homes and neighborhoods prior to breaking in. Because of this, all strangers should be treated with caution, including, but not limited to, door-to-door salespeople, handymen and delivery persons.
Don’t let strangers into your home unless necessary. If you must, place valuables out-of-sight, and be cognizant of the visitor’s identity, employer and rooms accessed.
With haunts lurking around every corner, have your own ghostbuster—or shall we say security system—on hand to protect you this fall.
What are your home security fears? Share them below. Or, contact us today to discuss how a home security system can help safeguard your home and family.
Image Source: Fabio Venni via Flickr
