Personal Insurance: When a Thief Strikes

Burglary :

There is a reality TV series on the Discover Channel called It Takes a Thief. I know insurance adjusters who would like to hug the producers of that series because it addresses the important security issues that homeowners face. The premise is that, on each show, homeowners agree to let a former professional burglar break into their residence and show them their security issues. He also shows the damage they can suffer when they do  not take adequate security measures.

Given a little time to prepare and to lock up their houses, the homeowners depart. Via hidden camera, they watch from a remote location while the burglar works. Typically, they are blown away by what happens. For example, those who trust that a big dog will deter burglars can experience jaw-dropping reality when they see their German Shepherd or Doberman frolic beside the burglar while he tears their home apart.

The series victims are always grateful for the immaculate cleanup, the strong new locks, and the state of the art security system that they receive in return for their cooperation. Yet, ironically, when the series burglar returns, unannounced, a few weeks later, he sometimes walks right in through the very same unlocked door that got him access the first time around. Or he finds that the splendid new security system is shut off.

It is true that little deters a truly dedicated criminal. But certainly we should try our best to discourage them. In fact, everyone has a responsibility to do so. To that end:

1. Have proper locks on doors and windows, and use them.

2. Keep checkbooks and bank statements under lock and key. Certainly keep personal papers and valuables such as jewelry in a safe place. (At least a locking security file is good for banking information.  A safety deposit box is best for personal documents such as passports and birth certificates. A small safe bolted to the floor is preferred if you have a lot of jewelry.)

3. If you have a home security system, a warning sign should be posted in a window or in front of your home, and the system should be active.