Here’s How Robbers Know When You Are Not Home

By: Stephen Thompson | Last updated: Nov 02, 2023

Your home is your sanctuary, where you feel safe and secure. However, it’s essential to be aware that burglars are constantly looking for property to steal from. They do not want to get caught, so they usually wait until you’re not home. 

A surprising fact is that you might be the one letting them know you’re out of town. Here are some steps to make sure your house doesn’t look empty.

A Dark House

When someone is home at night, they probably keep turning the lights on and off as they go about their evening routine. If the house remains dark all night, it’s a clear sign that no one is there. 

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According to Rob Gabriele, the managing editor and home security expert at SafeHome.org, installing smart lights that you can control remotely is an excellent way to prevent prowlers.

Delivered Items: Mails and Packages

When a stack of boxes grows outside your front door, and your pile of letters keeps growing in the mailbox, it’s an evident sign that no one is home to bring them in. The same can be said for newspapers lining the driveway. 

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The simple solution is to have someone pick up your mail or packages while you’re out of town.

An Overgrown Lawn

If you’re away from the house for an extended period, your lawn can indicate that. If you usually keep a well-manicured lawn, observers will know you have not been home for a while if your grass becomes unkempt. 

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To keep intruders away whenever you’re far away from home for a while, Gabriele advised hiring help for lawn maintenance.

Snowstorms

You might be away during the winter break while your local burglar is hard at work. Although this depends on where you live, a snowstorm could easily show that you’re not home if you’re away in the winter months. 

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Unplowed driveways or front walks that have not been shoveled for a few days after a snowfall can help burglars detect your absence. As with lawn care, hiring someone to take care of this while you’re away is best.