Things Your Burglar Won't Tell You: Part 1

  1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new washer.
  2. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry some trimmers. I do my best to never look suspicious or like a crook.
  3. Three things I hate most: barking dogs, nosy neighbors, and security systems. Oh yea! And COPS…almost forgot COPS. Don’t like them either. And monitored security systems are good at getting the COPS called.
  4. Don’t allow your alarm company to install the alarm keypad where I can see it from a window. If I can see it, I can tell if it is not set. After all, it’s not the “SIGNS” in the yard which bother me.
  5. If your city requires alarm systems to be registered and city ‘permit stickers’ on the windows, I look for them. Again, I know some people are simply trying to discourage me with alarm company signs and decals. A city permit sticker lets me KNOW there is a real alarm system inside. NEXT HOUSE PLEASE.
  6. I always knock. If you answer, I’ll have a well-rehearsed plausible reason for knocking. “Can I clean your gutters?” Don’t take me up on it.
  7. Wow! Nice safe! You are right; I won’t have enough time to break in it. But if it is not bolted down, I’ll take it with me. If it IS bolted down, it may make me curious enough to come back when I do have more time or help.
  8. Quit blabbing about everything on social sites, like Facebook and Twitter. It is easier than you think to look up your address. Enjoy that 2 ½ hour football game! I may even check the score on your TV. I like football too!
  9. Do you really think I won’t look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the night stands, and the medicine cabinets. Not only do I find things of value, but I often find some pretty interesting…or…umm…embarrassing items. When I see those ‘naughty’ items, I can’t help but use my imagination. I bet you do feel violated!
  10. If you park your car in the garage, it’s harder to track your comings-and-goings.
  11. I ALWAYS LOCK MY DOORS & I ALSO HAVE A SECURITY SYSTEM. I set my security system when I am home AND when I go out with the family.