Warning Signs That Indicate A Burglar May Be Targeting Your Home

August 30th, 2024



Unfortunately, burglaries happen quite often in modern society, even right here in Chico. According to a report published by Jacksonville State University, more than 2.2 million burglaries happen each year in the United States. In other words, that is the equivalent of approximately one theft every 15 seconds. Stats like these show how dangerous the world really is today.

A lot of criminals choose to rob a place when the inhabitants are not home. However, on some occasions, the residents are there, and they become the victims of violent crimes. For instance, the robber may hit, punch, or kick the individual leaving them injured and afraid. Of course, many of these criminals have guns or knives as well, so there is always the chance of a person getting shot or cut. Some of the perpetrators might even decide to commit other crimes like rape.

Therefore, Chico homeowners need to be vigilant and keep their eyes peeled for things that look out of place. Sadly, not everybody knows what to be on the lookout for though. Don't fret if this is the case. Instead, stay put and read on to learn about some warning signs that might indicate a burglar is targeting your Chico home. 

Watch For People Casing The Neighborhood

If persons spot a suspicious vehicle on the street, and it does not belong to one of their neighbors, it could be a burglar casing houses. They often take pictures and jot down notes to see when residents leave home as well as when they return. Should this problem arise, it is a good idea to snap a pic of the individual committing the acts if you can do so safely. Obtaining the car's license plate number can prove to be useful too. Then, contact local law enforcement officials to let them find out what the person is up to.

dir="ltr">Opening The Door For Strangers Can Be Dangerous

One trick that burglars have been using for years is merely knocking on a person's door to gain access to the home. They might ask to borrow the homeowner's phone or try to partake in small talk as if they know the person. Once inside, these criminals are able to see whether the place is safeguarded or not. If they do not see security cameras or an alarm system access panel, they will likely feel as if the home is an easy target. So, be on the lookout for random strangers knocking at the entryway and avoid opening the door for them.

dir="ltr">Keep An Eye Out For Newcomers Skulking About

It is easy for folks to get paranoid when they are constantly looking for potential threats. So, try not to get yourself worked up every time somebody is walking down the sidewalk or street. However, if a person walks near your house or a neighbor's peeking in the windows, this is likely a tell-tale sign that danger is afoot. Don't confront the individual as there is no telling what their true intentions are. Instead, contact the police and let them handle the situation.

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"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

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

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

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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