The Most Common Break-in Entry Points
The crime statistic rankings of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) revealed that one in 36 homes has been a victim of burglary. This resulted in about $4.7 billion in property loss, or an average of $2,230 per break-in.
The FBI also added that the majority of burglaries take place from the early to the late summer months, between 10 A.M. and 3 P.M. This is why they advise households to keep their property secured 24/7.
According to FBI’s Uniform Crime Report, here are the most common entry points of burglars: 1. Front Door (34%) – Burglars break in through the front door using force (pushing or kicking) or lock picking tools. The older the door, the easier it is to open. 2 First Floor Window (23%) – Burglars either cut the screens or dismantle the windows for quiet entry. If the neighborhood is noisy, breaking the glass is the easiest way to get in.
3. Back Door (22%) – Burglars who want to hide during the day go to the back door to avoid contact with neighbors. Many households don’t prioritize the security of this area, making it an easy target.
4. Garage (9%) – Burglars can enter the house easily if households forget to close the garage door properly. A door with transparent windows also makes it easy for burglars to know if something is worth stealing. Households should work with a professional to design it effectively. 5. Storage Areas and Other Entrances (6%) – Burglars look for all possible areas to break into, so any kind of opening that connects to the house can be their entry point.
6. Basement (4%) – Burglars find a way to fit themselves into bulkhead doors and casement windows, so it’s best to keep these secure. It’s ideal to use glass with security film to avoid possible break-ins. 7. Second Floor (2%) – Burglars are flexible, and they sometimes climb the balconies or second floor windows to break in. Knowing the most common entry points can help households improve the security of their property. They’ll know what to fix, helping them protect their families and their belongings better. Sources: http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20213859_20484820,00.html http://www.houselogic.com/blog/home-security/garage-door-break-in-video/ http://www.pricesdoors.com/utah-garage-doors/