Even though TV shows and movies are filled with crime scenes and burglary, robbery seems like something that might happen to other people, but surely not you. However, the U.S. Department of Justice reported that more than 3 million burglaries occur each year in the U.S. If you are in this disorienting situation, you might need help knowing what to do next.
If you have been burglarized, it can be a very emotional experience – not only from the pain of losing your possessions, but the disbelief and sense of violation that can follow an intrusion. This short list of first-response items can provide you the help you need. And for those who haven’t been burglarized, knowing what to do beforehand will help you immensely in the event of a robbery.
Step 1: Call the police.
You should immediately contact the authorities as they can provide safety and possibly locate the perpetrator, which may help you recover some of your possessions. Also, some insurance policies require a police report case number to file a larceny claim.
If you suspect the thief may still be inside your home, do not enter. Wait for the police to arrive, and stay safe by waiting in your car with locked doors, preferably at a neighbour’s house.
Step 2: Call your insurance provider.
Burglary claims must be filed within 24 hours of a crime, so do not delay. Even if you don’t have a detailed list of what has been taken yet, it’s best to get the insurance process started.
Step 3: Re-secure your home.
If the thief used forced entry, immediately reinforce the broken window or door. Call a locksmith in Markham to have a professional help re-secure points of previous entry, or other potential weak points. Change all the locks on your home as soon as possible.
Step 4: Notify your bank.
If your credit cards, checks, or ATM card go missing, immediately cancel those cards to minimize further financial damage. Even if the physical cards are not missing, burglars may have already gained access to your financial information. Notify your bank so they can be on the alert for any suspicious activity on your accounts.
Step 5: Notify neighbours.
Let your neighbours know a burglary has taken place in the vicinity so they can be alert. This can help them secure their own homes and also watch out for the perpetrator in case of a repeated crime attempt in the area.
Step 6: Take inventory.
List possessions that have been stolen, including brand name and year of purchase. Take photographs of the damage to your home, as that can be covered by your insurance in addition to stolen belongings. Photographs of items will help the police track your items as well, but do not touch or move anything as the police or an insurance adjuster may need to survey the damage as-is.
Step 7: Reach out for support.
Being the victim of a robbery can be a distressing experience. Be sure to get adequate support from loved ones as you recover from this emotional time.
These seven steps will help you regain your safety and take the proper measures to get the assistance you will need after a burglary. While you cannot always fully prevent a robbery, you can take additional precautions to discourage a future burglary:
Purchase homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.
Install a home security system, including reliable locks and an alarm associated with every door and window.
Keep your property well-lit and manicured.
Consider home safety features such as a personal safe for important personal documents like Social Security cards, passports, car titles, etc. Bolt it down so burglars can’t carry it with them.
These precautions will help protect you in the event of a burglary.
For help securing your home after a burglary, be sure to contact a reliable locksmith in Richmond Hill, Markham, or surrounding area.
For a locksmith in the Vaughan, Markham, or Richmond Hill area call 905-477-7618.
If you are in need of a locksmith in Scarborough, or a locksmith in North York call .
For those located further east and looking for a locksmith in Newmarket, King City or Aurora, call 905-477-7618.
Affordable Lock is a locksmith in Markham serving the Greater Toronto Area, including Scarborough, Aurora, North York, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan and Stouffville. With over 30 years of experience, we pride ourselves on looking after your commercial locksmith needs. Affordable Lock’s showroom in Markham showcases a wide selection of keys, locks and an assortment of other security products for your home or business. Whether you are looking to upgrade your home or business’s security, or solve security issues, Affordable Lock Services Inc. in Markham is here for you! Give us a call today.