The everyday family kitchen that is essential for burglars
A FORMER burglar has issued a warning over a common kitchen item that could encourage robbers.
The foundation of the organization can be found in many homes and is often left in plain sight.
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However, according to ex-robber turned security expert Michael Fraser, having an agenda can actually pose a security risk.
“A lot of people hang calendars in their kitchens,” he said during an interview on This Morning.
“And the calendar shows the dates they come out.
‘And what they don’t realize is that the burglar can read.
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“He comes around the back and looks through it.
“If he sees you’re not there, he’ll come back.”
And if you can’t live without a calendar, make sure it’s not hanging near a window.
“It is also a clear indication that you are not safety conscious,” he added.
“So yeah, we all have calendars.
“Don’t leave them near windows where they can be seen.”
Likewise, when you go away, don’t be tempted to share photos on your social media pages.
“Everyone does it,” he sighed.
“You give burglars a perfect opportunity to do serious damage, and take their time because they know no one will be inside.”
Michael’s other advice included having two locks on the front door as this can deter a burglar by making them aware that it is more difficult to get in.
“To make their own lives easier, they just go somewhere else where there is only one lock,” he said.
He also recommended placing a cage around your mailbox, to prevent “mailbox fishing,” where people can grab important documents.
How to protect your home against burglars
- Install a home security system:
- Think of alarms, CCTV cameras and smart doorbells.
- Choose systems that allow remote monitoring via smartphone.
- Secure doors and windows:
- Make sure all doors and windows have robust locks.
- Use deadbolts and window locks for extra security.
- Consider installing a peephole or door chain.
- Improve outdoor lighting:
- Install motion sensor lighting around your property.
- Make sure paths, driveways and entrances are well lit.
- Maintain your garden:
- Keep hedges and shrubs pruned to eliminate hiding places.
- Store tools and ladders safely to prevent them from being used in the event of a burglary.
- Use timers for lighting:
- Set timers to turn the lights on and off to give the impression that someone is home.
- Consider using smart plugs to control appliances remotely.
- Secure garages and sheds:
- Make sure these areas are secured with strong padlocks.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
- Get to know your neighbors:
- Get involved or start a neighborhood watch program.
- Encourage neighbors to keep an eye on each other’s properties.
- Be careful with social media:
- Don’t post vacation plans or location updates online.
- Make sure the privacy settings are secure to limit who can see your messages.
- Mark valuables with a UV pen:
- Mark valuables with a UV pen with your zip code and house number.
- Register items in a proprietary database to make them easier to find if they are stolen.
- Then consider installing a safe:
- Use a safe to store important documents and valuables.
- Make sure the safe is securely bolted to the floor or wall.
- Check your home insurance:
- Check whether your home insurance is still up to date.
- Make sure the value of your belongings is covered.
- Perform regular safety checks:
- Review and update your home security measures regularly.
- Make sure all systems and locks are in good working order.
They may also be able to open the door from the inside if there is no cage around it.
Another mailbox tip may seem obvious, but Michael admitted it’s more common than you might think.
“People leave keys in mailboxes attached to a string,” he revealed.
“This is a very fundamental mistake that could again have major consequences.”
People were quick to comment on the interview when it was shared on TikTok, with one person writing: “That’s smart!”
“Thanks for the advice,” praised another.
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