Thieves are always paying attention to your daily habits. Even if you’re not on vacation, they still may be watching your home. It’s important to know how to throw them off to protect your property. Here are eight daily habits you need to stop doing if you want to deter burglars.
1. Leaving Lights Off for Long Periods
A dark house night after night is a classic sign that no one’s home. Smart burglars look for patterns, and a consistently dark property invites attention. Consider using timers or smart lighting to simulate activity. If you get home late from work, turn on the lights well beforehand. While some robberies happen in broad daylight, most happen during the evening hours.
2. Letting Mail or Packages Pile Up
A stuffed mailbox or packages left on the porch scream “no one’s been here in days.” Criminals often scope out homes for this exact sign. Put a hold on mail or ask a neighbor to collect it while you’re away. Better yet, sign up for a PO box so that thieves don’t know when you’re not around. Stolen mail can lead to identity theft as well. Porch pirates also take advantage of all those Amazon packages! So, it’s best to avoid mail delivery when you can.
3. Leaving Doors and Windows Unlocked
Leaving doors and windows unlocked is an open invitation for thieves. Even leaving your car door open signals that you aren’t careful about locking up. It’s best to test doors and windows at night before going to bed. Better yet, install a security system for the most protection.
4. Using Weak Wi-fi passwords
If you use a weak wi-fi password or none at all, you are leaving yourself unprotected. Hackable wi-fis could allow thieves to get into your security system or steal all your information. Even getting into your email calendar could let thieves see exactly when you won’t be home.
5. Posting Vacation Pics in Real Time
Sharing travel photos on social media while you’re away advertises an empty home. Wait until you return to post pictures, and avoid tagging your location in real-time. Additionally, don’t be so transparent about your plans on the internet. It’s an easy way for thieves to know you won’t be home.
6. No Car in the Driveway
An empty driveway, especially overnight or for multiple days, is a red flag. If possible, park a car there or ask a neighbor to park in your spot occasionally to suggest someone is home. This simple trick can make your home look occupied even when you’re away. Thieves often scout for patterns, and a consistently empty driveway can make your house a target.
7. Ignoring Trash Day
No bins at the curb on collection day is a small but telling clue. Burglars notice routines. Arrange for someone to put out your trash and bring the bins in, even if they’re empty. It gives the impression that life inside the house is continuing as usual. Skipped trash days signal absence and can draw unwanted attention.
8. Turning Off All Sounds
A silent house, no TV, radio, or pet noise, can confirm a home is empty. Use timed audio devices or leave a radio playing at low volume to mimic normal activity. You could even post signs like “Beware of Dog,” even if you don’t have a pet. These things can act as a crime deterrent, with very little effort on your part.
Daily Habits You Need to Break
Don’t let yourself be a victim of a break-in. If you are guilty of any of these habits, you should stop them. Immediately. If not, thieves may target your home.
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Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.