When we think about home security, we usually focus on locks, alarms, and cameras. Similarly, we imagine a burglar acting quickly under the cover of darkness. But often, the crime begins long before they break a window. Many burglars are, in fact, quite patient. They will watch a home and wait for the perfect moment to strike. To do this, however, they need a place to hide. Their hiding spots are often surprisingly close and unnervingly ordinary. Therefore, knowing these locations can help you see your property through a criminal’s eyes. This, in turn, allows you to identify and eliminate potential hiding spots. Here are some of the odd place’s criminals hide before a break-in.
1. Inside Your Own Shed
Your backyard shed seems secure. However, for many people, it’s the least secured structure on their property. A cheap padlock, for instance, is easy to break. Once inside, a burglar has the perfect observation post. Hidden from the street, they can watch the back of your house, seeing when you leave a room or turn off the lights. Additionally, they might find useful tools inside, like a ladder or a crowbar. For this reason, always use a high-quality lock on your shed.
2. Within Overgrown Bushes and Landscaping
Those dense bushes you planted for privacy can unfortunately also provide cover for criminals. Indeed, overgrown landscaping near your home is a burglar’s best friend because it creates natural blind spots. A person can crouch down and be completely invisible from the street or your windows. In fact, they can wait for hours if needed. Therefore, keep shrubs and trees trimmed, especially around windows and doors. In short, don’t give them a place to disappear.
3. In a Neighbor’s Unsecured Yard
Criminals often exploit the weakest link in a neighborhood. For example, they might hide in a neighbor’s yard, especially if it’s vacant or poorly maintained. This could be behind a boat, an RV, or in a playhouse. From this vantage point, they can then watch your home without being on your property. This is precisely why community vigilance is so important. Ultimately, a strong neighborhood is one where people look out for each other’s properties.
4. On a Low-Sloping Roof or Balcony
We rarely think to look up when checking our property. But a low roof, like one over a porch or a first-floor extension, can be an ideal hiding spot. Up there, a criminal can lie flat and be out of sight. From that position, they can access second-story windows, which are often left unlocked. Balconies also offer concealment. So, make sure upper-floor windows and doors are just as secure as those on the ground floor.
5. Under a Deck or Porch
The space beneath a raised deck or porch is dark and secluded. In fact, it’s one of the most common places criminals hide. They can crawl underneath and wait for the right moment. Moreover, this spot gives them a close-up view of backdoors and basement windows. Installing latticework around the base of your deck can help. Better yet, use a solid material or add motion-sensor lights underneath.
6. Inside a Large Trash Receptacle
While it sounds unpleasant, this tactic is effective. A large, empty trash or recycling bin can conceal a person completely. A burglar might, for instance, wheel it to a strategic location closer to your house. Then, they can hide inside. Although this is more common in commercial burglaries, it can happen in residential areas too. Therefore, always bring your bins in from the curb promptly after trash day.
7. In an Unlocked Car Parked in the Driveway
People often forget to lock their cars, even in their own driveway. Consequently, a burglar can slip into the backseat of an unlocked car. Tinted windows, of course, provide excellent cover. From there, they have a clear view of your garage and front door. Then, they can wait for you to leave. So, always lock your car doors, even at home, as it removes one more potential hiding place.
8. Within a Neighboring Construction Site
A nearby house under construction is a magnet for opportunistic criminals. These sites are often deserted after work hours, thus providing plenty of places to hide, such as behind stacks of materials or in unfinished rooms. Additionally, the setting offers a plausible reason for noise. A hammer sound from a construction site, after all, won’t raise alarms. If you live near a build, be extra vigilant.
Eliminate the Shadows Where They Lurk
Improving your home security isn’t just about fortification. Instead, it’s about illumination and observation. Walk around your property at night and see where the dark spots are. Imagine where someone could hide without being seen. Indeed, simple changes like trimming bushes, adding motion-sensor lights, and locking sheds can make a huge difference. By removing these places criminals hide, you ultimately make your home a much harder and less appealing target. In effect, you are sending a clear message: you are paying attention.
Can you think of any other unusual hiding spots? Share them in the comments to help others.
What to Read Next…
- 10 Everyday Places Criminals Target Without You Noticing
- 8 Ways Your Amazon Alexa Could Be Helping Criminals Hack Your Life
- 5 Ways Criminals Target Tourists—And How to Outsmart Them
- 9 Ruthless Scams That Prey on Families Right After a Death
- 5 Local Scams Police Say Are Targeting Older Adults Right Now
Latrice is a dedicated professional with a rich background in social work, complemented by an Associate Degree in the field. Her journey has been uniquely shaped by the rewarding experience of being a stay-at-home mom to her two children, aged 13 and 5. This role has not only been a testament to her commitment to family but has also provided her with invaluable life lessons and insights.
As a mother, Latrice has embraced the opportunity to educate her children on essential life skills, with a special focus on financial literacy, the nuances of life, and the importance of inner peace.
