What Burglars Say About Burglar Alarms

In research examining criminal behaviour, a survey of 422 convicted burglars found that most would actively avoid homes with visible home alarm systems in place. This research highlights the importance of home intruder alarm systems in protecting your home.

The survey found that of the 422 convicted burglars interviewed, 60% said that if they found a burglar alarm at a property, they would look for an alternative target.

Burglars are looking for easy targets. They do not want to attract attention. A burglar alarm has the potential to activate and attract attention. Criminals are also aware of monitored systems and how they work. It makes sense that burglars would look for an alternative target should they find a burglar alarm at a property.

The research said that 83% of convicted burglars would check whether a home had a burglar alarm before attempting to break in. This is why a visible sign of your home security measures is crucial. An external bell box on the outside of your property could be doing more than you realise. One of our recent innovations is the glowing bell box which actually lights up. It stands out and is really visible; it looks brilliant. And it makes it obvious that your home is protected, even at a quick glance.

What About Impulsive Burglars?

For burglars considering their target they may be able to look at home security systems in advance. But what about impulsive burglaries? On the spur of the moment, an intruder would not have chance to look at security measures in place. The study found that even during an impulsive break in, more than half of the burglars would discontinue if they discovered a burglar alarm. So having your alarm switched on could stop an intruder in their tracks, and cause them to abandon their attempts to break in.

This research carried out in 2013 is echoed in more recent data from the ONS. Data from the property crime tables in 2024 show people with burglar alarms are less likely to suffer ‘burglary with entry’.

Home alarm systems work.

Keybury Fire and Security are home security specialists, having installed thousands of burglar alarms since the first one was fitted in 1982. Schedule your free of charge home security survey for a home burglar alarm quote. Book online or contact 0800 458 7486 or sales@keybury.co.uk