Most people look forward to the summer time, when the sunshine and days last a little longer. Homeowners may use this time to open their windows and get some fresh air. Unfortunately, those with the intent to rob others, also look forward to the summer time. Because this is when homeowners may be less agile with locking up and putting everything away.
Property crime rate in New York
In the state of New York, property crime rates overall are around 300,555 annually. Your chances of becoming a victim of any type of property crime is 1 in 66. Burglars target every 15 out of 1,000 residents.
Property crime rate in Hamburg, New York
The city of Hamburg, New York is not exempt from these unwanted circumstances. As a matter of fact, there are about 118 property crime incidents each year, targeting about 12 homes per every 1,000 residents. While these are year-round statistics, crime rates are more saturated during the summer. For example: a study done by the Bureau of Justice Statistics on seasonal effects on criminal patterns, concluded that home burglaries increase by nearly 11% during the summer time.
Getting in the mind of a burglar
For homeowners to be more aware of how to protect themselves and their families from being targeted or robbed, they need to think like someone who needs fast cash. Pricey items left out in the open can attract burglars. While you may see it as simply leaving your phone on your kitchen table, burglars see it as obvious and an easy opportunity.
Burglars are more likely to grab wallets, handbags or cash they see laying out. Most burglars never make it upstairs because it is easier to just run into someone’s house, swipe their first floor and exit. However, if they have studied their victims and know they’ll be gone, then they’re more likely to search bedrooms and office areas.
The top three items burglars tend to steal are:
- Cash
- Jewelry
- Electronics
Contrary to popular belief, security cameras don’t always stop people who intend to steal from you. Also, it’s more common for burglars to break in during early morning hours and the day versus at night. Becoming aware of the tactics used by burglars may help homeowners to better secure their assets during increased crime bursts in the summer.