Get into the mind of an intruder

Clear Watch Security > Blog > Security Tips > Get into the mind of an intruder

An intruder situation can be frustrating for any property owner. What can you do to tackle this issue? First, we have to get into the mind of an intruder. A study conducted by co-op insurance on ex criminals shows that the best deterrent for burglars are surveillance cameras, guard dogs, heavy doors, and street lighting. Intruders are opportunists, to understand their mentality we are going to have to understand their behaviours and habits. Below listed are some behaviour & habits of a burglar in non-residential areas.

Behaviours & Habits

In residential areas burglaries usually take place during the day while you’re away at work.
Non residential areas are usually targeted during the night while everyone is out of office.
Burglars tend to not carry any equipment as it makes it easier for a quicker getaway. They often utilise everything on site.
Breaking and entering crimes are usually committed by a lone burglar
Most intruders enter through an unlocked door or window.
Money, jewellery, electronics, and personal data are the true targets.
A burglary can last up to 10 minutes.

What security precautions should I take?

Now that we have understood and acknowledged some of their habits, it’ll help us choose our course of action. Investing in the right security measures can help you a long way, not only will it help deter criminals from your business, but also give you that peace of mind you have been waiting for. Based on some of the habits of burglars, here are some security measures you should consider looking into:

Surveillance cameras
Alarm systems
Security personnel
Motion sensor lighting
Fences
Barriers
A guard dog
Signage boards
Heavy doors
Window bars

Crime rate in the UK

In the recent study conducted by the Office of National Statistics (December 2021), it was discovered that the North West of England (754,447) and London (794,046) have the highest crime rate in UK. You may find this shocking, but it was expected since they are two of the most populated areas in the UK.

Office for National Statistics: Crime in England and Wales – Police Force Area data tables

Crime Rate. Increase? or Decrease?

In the pandemic period there was a massive decrease of theft and burglaries in the UK because of lockdown restrictions. Once the third lockdown was lifted it was expected that crime rate in the UK was to surge, but in truth, the crime rate decreased by 3%. Even though crime rate is slowly decreasing, this shouldn’t stop you from implementing security measures into your establishment. Implementing security measures will not only give you the peace of mind you need but would also deter the likes of vandals and burglars as they tend to avoid intruding places with high amounts of security.