Over 50% Of All Burglaries Are Residential—How To Protect Your Family

I recently joined forces with Today's Homeowner to address what to do after a burglary and how to better secure your home to deter a break-in. In light of the FBI's latest statistics (released on Monday) about crimes reported in 2022, it's also the right time to review recovery after a burglary on SafeWise.

According to the FBI, property crime has been on the rise. The per capita property crime rate jumped 6.7% from 2021 to 2022. Burglary accounted for nearly 14% of all property crimes, with over one in two burglaries occurring at private residences and 57% involving forcible entry.

While we hope none of our readers have to deal with the traumatic experience of a burglary, the truth is it can happen. Whether you've had a break-in, know someone who's been burgled, or simply want to be prepared, we're here to help. Here are our recommendations for what to do after a burglary—and the proactive steps you can take to prevent one in the future.

1. Ensure immediate safety.

• Find a safe place and call 911.
• Avoid entering your home if you suspect a break-in.

2. Check on family, kids, and pets.

• Contact all family members, especially kids.
• Check on the well-being of pets.

3. Take inventory.

• Document damaged property and forced entry points.
• List stolen items for insurance claims and police assistance.

4. File a police report and contact insurance.

• Cooperate with law enforcement and provide details.
• Contact your insurance company with policy information and documentation.

5. Review surveillance footage.

• Examine any security camera footage for evidence. 
• Check with neighbors to see if they have any footage they're willing to share.
• Help identify intruders and provide timestamps for investigations.

6. Clean up after police investigation.

• Restore your space after the police finish gathering evidence.
• Seek emotional support to help all family members cope with the break-in.

1. Entry point security

• Upgrade locks to high-quality deadbolts and smart locks.
• Use all entry point locks; burglars avoid locked homes.
• Strengthen windows with locks and security film.
• Secure the garage with maintenance and interior locks.

2. Outdoor safety measures

• Install motion-activated outdoor lighting.
• Trim overgrown shrubs and eliminate hiding spots.
• Consider a dog for added security.

3. Home security systems

• Invest in surveillance cameras, doorbell cameras, and smart alarms.
• Stay proactive with real-time insights.
• Establish a direct line to help with 24/7 professional monitoring.

4. Neighborhood collaboration

• Build relationships with neighbors for mutual protection.
• Join a neighborhood watch program.
• Share travel plans discreetly with trusted neighbors.

5. Personal privacy and valuables

• Avoid oversharing on social media.
• Store valuables in unconventional spots, or invest in a home safe.
• Use home automation to make your home appear occupied when you're away.

6. Emergency planning and readiness

• Create an emergency plan with your family.
• Determine meeting spots inside and outside the home.
• Practice escape routes and designate a caregiver.
• Prepare a safe room with a lock.
• Plan to call 911 once safely retreated; stay in a secure room until police arrive.

• How Your Family Can Recover After a Burglary
• Burglary vs. Robbery
• 8 Surprising Home Burglary Facts and Stats
• Is Your Neighborhood Safe? 7 Tools to Help You Find Out
• Best Home Security Systems