One of the most hurtful experiences is breaking into your home. When you've been broken into, it can be a pretty overwhelming feeling. Before doing anything, it is extremely important that you do not enter your home. In order not to disturb the crime scene, you need to stay outside or go to a friend's house. From there you can call the police, but before they arrive it is important not to touch anything.
Here is a clear step-by-step guide in case you are broken into.
Submit a police report
Before doing anything else, you must call the police. Do not go inside, touch the broken glass, or move objects that could serve as evidence. The police will examine the property for signs of forced entry and examine the house for fingerprints. The police report is a written record that a crime has taken place. If you've filled out a report of the break-in, be sure to request a copy. This report is useful when making an insurance claim.
List the items that have been stolen or damaged
Go through the house room by room and make a list of the things that are missing. Be thorough and take a close look at everything in your home. Include serial numbers and an estimate of their value. Look for items that are missing from the garage, as well as missing keys.
Talk to the neighbors
Let the community know there has been a break-in in your area. Ask if they saw anyone near you and if they have known about any similar incidents and activities recently. Take note of any helpful information they give you. Give this information along with your neighbor's contact details to the police who are investigating the break-in.
Check for surveillance material
If you or your neighbors have security cameras at home, check the footage from that day. Share any videos that captured even the smallest bits of the crime as they can be helpful for your insurance claim.
make photos
Take photos and video tutorials to document the crime scene. Videos and pictures are important evidence of property damage and missing valuables.
Notify your bank
Inform your bank of the break-in as soon as possible. Even if the burglar didn't steal your credit cards or checkbook, they likely had access to bank statements and other important financial documents. Make sure to request a new card.
Make an insurance claim
Check your home insurance to see what is covered and how quickly claims must be submitted after the break-in. Gather all proof of ownership for these things; This can include receipts and photos of the house before the break-in. Once you've gathered the information you need, contact your insurance company to see what it covers.
Secure the property
After a break-in, you may and likely feel unsafe. There are usually broken windows or broken locks. It is important to make the house safe again. Therefore, the specialists at Saunders Locksmiths believe that there should be a 24 hour emergency service that you can use to secure your windows, doors, locks and other access points.
Change the locks and increase security
Your locks need to be changed asap. Therefore, contact a professional and trustworthy locksmith. A break-in is a powerful message that it is time to step up security. You need to address the home's weak points to prevent future break-ins. A home burglary can be financially and emotionally devastating, and it's normal to feel anxious, insecure, and angry afterward. Take the time to take care of yourself and your family and connect with your support network. By implementing new and safer home protection, you can feel more secure in your home.
