How To Protect Target Items From Burglars

April 7th, 2023



When burglars break into our Chico homes, they often target specific items. These items tend to have one primary thing in common: They have a high value and are generally untraceable on the black market. Understanding what these items are is an important part of your home security strategy. Protecting them will not only reduce the financial impact of a break-in but can also help deter criminals from targeting your home in the first place.

The Seven Most Targeted Items By Thieves

No matter where you live in CA, there are some common items that are always targeted by thieves. These include:

  1. Electronics like TVs, phones, laptops, and tablets
  2. Bicycles
  3. Firearms and other weaponry
  4. Tools and power tools
  5. Jewelry
  6. Cash
  7. Golfing equipment

All of these items hold a lot of value and are difficult to trace. Even electronics with distinct serial numbers often are hard for police to locate once they’ve been stolen. When developing your Chico home security strategy, keep these items in mind as things that need an extra layer of protection.

Robust Strategies To Protect Targeted Items

There are several strategies you can deploy to help keep these items protected:

  • Keep Targeted Items Out Of Sight: If criminals do not know that you have these items, they will be less likely to target your home. Make sure that none of these items are visible from the street through your windows. Also make sure to destroy any boxes or receipts before putting them in the trash. Criminals often go through the trash to find targets.
  • Invest In Secure Storage: For high value items that you don’t use frequently, consider investing in safe storage. At your home, consider investing in a high quality safe. Make sure to have a code that is difficult to crack and never share it with anyone. Also take steps to secure your safe. One great idea is to bolt it to the floor. If you want an added layer of security, consider getting a safe deposit box at your bank. This is a great strategy for irreplaceable items like your great grandmother’s ring.
  • Deploy Your Security System: There are a variety of security system features that can help you protect these specific items. Implementing motion detector sensors, surveillance cameras, and alarms can add an extra layer of protection. These integrated into your home security system will ensure that when thieves attempt to grab these valuable items, there are barriers. These strategies will also help protect these items from internal theft. Sadly 61.5% of burglaries are committed by someone the homeowner knew. Having targeted security is far more helpful in these cases than a standard home security system.

These strategies can help you protect these targeted items. For more ideas, you’ll want to work with your Chico security professional. They will assess your possessions and help you come up with a comprehensive strategy to keep them out of the hands of thieves. 





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D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

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John M.

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Tieka and Don S.

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Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
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