When a burglar enters your home, if he manages to get past your home security device, what’s the first thing they are going to look for? You may worry about your TV, computer or various electronics and, of course, those are at risk, but there are many other items that top the list of most stolen items. Including some that you might not have thought of.
Cash:
Cold, hard cash is definitely in the top five most stolen items list. You may think you know where to hide your emergency staff of cash, but most likely the thief knows where you’re hiding it as well. It’s best to either keep your money in the bank or in a safe bolted to the floor. The freezer, the mattress, and toilet tanks aren’t as sneaky as you think they are.
Don’t forget: Cash also means the jar of change you’ve been using as a vacation fund and the gas money in your wallet, in your purse, hanging by the door.
Jewelry:
This might be obvious, but jewelry definitely tops the list since it’s small, easy to grab, and easy to resell. The best way to protect your favorite and most prized jewelry items is to keep them in that above mentioned safe. And, even though some items might be priceless, family pieces, make sure they are all insured.
Guns:
While you may keep guns in your home for protection, this plan can backfire (pardon the pun) as guns are high on the most stolen list. Even other weapons (bows, etc.) can easily be resold. To protect the items meant to protect you, keep them in a secure gun safe. Be sure to research the best safes-many can be, and have been, unlocked by children.
Your Identity:
While not a an item that can be secured in a safe, the twenty-first-century burglar is looking to steal something much more valuable, your identity. While it may not be obvious, the items that give intruders access to your identity may be sitting out in the open right now. Tax forms, bank statements, credit cards, password lists, and more, are things that typically don’t get secured but give burglars something to sell to identity thieves. Lock up these documents with your cash in that bolted down safe.
Unexpected, Often Stolen, Items:
While the above items may be ones you are already securing, don’t get too cocky. Some of the most stolen items are often the most unexpected and may not even be found in your house. When you’re securing your valuables and cash, don’t forget about these items.
- Prescription Drugs
- Your Dog
- BBQ Grill
- Riding lawn mower
- Patio furniture
- Bikes
You can’t secure every item in your home, but you can be safe and smart. Besides focusing on door locks and security devices, make sure you are bringing items out of your yard at night and insuring the items that aren’t as easy to hide.