What do you do after a home break-in?

Home break-ins can leave you feeling violated, exposed, and disoriented. Take these steps in the hours and days after the incident to help you and your family recover more quickly.

Immediately After

• If you weren’t home but can tell from the outside that it’s been burglarized, don’t go in — the thief may still be there. Go to a neighbor’s house or lock yourself in your car and call 911.
• If you’re inside when you discover the burglary, call 911, and make sure no one is physically hurt. Let police know if any firearms or knives were kept on the property. It could mean that the suspect may be armed.
• Try not to touch anything before the police get there. There may be fingerprints or other evidence that can be used to catch and prosecute the burglars.

First 24 Hours

• An insurance adjuster will usually contact you within 24 hours after you’ve filed your claim. Be prepared to provide any proof of items stolen, like receipts or titles.
• Clean up signs that you’ve had a home break-in. Seal any broken windows or doors until you can replace them. Don’t throw away damaged items though; they will be noted by your insurance claim.
• Notify your neighbors. They may have noticed suspicious activity and can provide more details. There’s also a chance the burglar may try to break into your home again or move on to theirs.

First 48 Hours

• Replace glass or doors that were damaged during the break-in. Keep copies of all receipts to submit to your insurance company.
• If any credit or debit cards were in the home, call your bank to report them stolen. The bank will issue new numbers so that the old ones can’t be used.
• Report any missing identification, like a Social Security card, report it to police and place a freeze on your credit. A burglar could use it to start new credit accounts in your name.
• Follow up with police to check on the status of your case. Have your case number ready. If your goods are recovered, the police will notify you.

The Month After

• Safeguard your home against future incidents. Consider changing the locks on your doors and windows, installing a home security system, or purchasing a home safe.
• Consider adding security cameras to the outside of your home. Over 1/3 of burglars said they avoid houses with cameras.
• If your insurance doesn’t cover the damages, there may be a state or local crime victim’s fund that can assist. Contact the police department or attorney general’s office for possible resources.
• Put away valuables when you have workers or guests you don’t know well in your home. Nearly 2/3 of people who are burglarized know the home invader.
• Be cautious about posting your whereabouts on social media. 10% of burglars said they use social media to track people’s movements.

The psychological effects of a home intrusion can be lasting.
Don’t be afraid to look to friends, family, clergy members, or a therapist for emotional support

Download: What To Do After A Home Break-In

Take Action!

In one study, 60 percent of burglars said that they would pass on a house that displayed a sign from a reputable alarm company. Call EPS Security at 800.966.9199 or go to submit a quote request to find out how we can help minimize your chances of a break-in, and give you the security of knowing your family is protected.