The 10 Most Stolen Items in Home Burglaries
When a burglar breaks into a home, they have a clear mission: get in, grab valuables, and get out quickly. But what exactly are these thieves targeting? Here are the top items burglars steal and where they look for them.
1. Cash
Cash is the top target for burglars because it's untraceable, easy to conceal, and, obviously, can be spent on anything. They often head straight to the bedroom, searching in obvious places like drawers, under mattresses, shoe boxes, and even cookie jars. To protect your money, keep it in a securely fixed safe rather than in easily accessible spots.
2. Jewelry and Watches
Jewelry and watches are small but highly valuable, making them prime targets. Burglars often check dressers and bedside tables first. For more expensive pieces, they will search wardrobes and drawers. Store your valuables in a heavy-duty safe, ideally one that's hidden.
3. Electronics
Tablets, laptops, and gaming consoles are common targets due to their high resale value and portability. Burglars frequently look in living rooms, home offices, and bedrooms for these items. When not in use, store electronics out of sight and consider investing in a home security system.
4. Prescription Medications
The illegal trade in prescription drugs is growing, and burglars are taking notice. They typically raid bathroom cabinets, followed by kitchen drawers and cabinets. Keep medications in a lockable cabinet to deter theft.
5. Personal Documents
Burglars often steal personal identification documents like passports, driver's licenses, and bank statements for identity theft purposes. They will search through piles of unopened mail, filing cabinets, and even trash bins. Keep these documents in a secure, fireproof safe and shred any unneeded papers.
6. Designer Clothes and Accessories
High-end clothing and accessories are attractive to burglars for their resale value. Thieves look in wardrobes and dressers for these items. Secure smaller items in a safe and consider locking your bedroom or closet door.
7. Firearms
Firearms are highly sought after for their high resale value. Thieves will attempt to break into gun safes or remove them entirely. Ensure your firearms are stored in a secure, immovable safe.
8. Keys
Some burglars specifically target keys to steal cars or access your home later. They typically check near entry points like doors and nightstands. Store keys away from doors and use signal-blocking pouches for keyless entry cars.
9. Furniture
Surprisingly, small pieces of furniture and outdoor items are sometimes stolen. Thieves target easily transportable items like patio furniture and small indoor tables. Secure outdoor items and lock doors to prevent easy access.
10. Bicycles
Bicycles are often targeted due to their high value, ease of resale, and mobility. Burglars look in garages, sheds, and backyards. Lock your bike securely and store it out of sight when possible.
By understanding what burglars target most frequently and how they operate, you can take steps to protect your valuables and deter potential theft.
References: Most common items stolen in home burglaries | The Top 7 Things Burglars Steal and Where They Look
