A home is a refuge from the outside world but when a home is broken into, more than just windows or doors get broken. The psychological impacts of a break-in can last far longer than any damage to the property. If you experience a break-in, chances are good you will feel scared and unprepared. However, the best thing you can do after a break-in is to keep your cool. First Lock & Security Technologies offers some helpful tips below to recover from this devastating experience.
Report the Break-In to the Police
No matter whether you experience a break-in first hand or come home to find your house has been broken into, calling the police should be the first thing you do. Your loved one’s safety is of the utmost importance, and you need to get law enforcement involved right away. Plus, getting the incident on record will help with your insurance claims down the road. If you even remotely suspect that the burglar is still inside your home, do not go inside. Instead, go to a neighbor’s house or back to your car and call the police. If you go inside your home to wait for the police to arrive, do not touch anything. Unfortunately, you are now at a crime scene, and everything around you is evidence that the police could use to find the burglars.
Note what was Damaged and/or Stolen After House was Broken Into
Once the police have arrived and you know the situation is safe, it’s time to assess the damage. If you don’t already have a home inventory list, start to make a list now of all the stolen and damaged items with a description and value for each item. If you are not sure what is missing, keep in mind that firearms, electronics, cash, and jewelry are the most commonly-stolen items.
How Do I Make an Insurance Claim After a Burglary?
You should make every effort to contact your insurance company within 24 hours of the crime. If you can, stay with relatives or friends so that important evidence that a claims adjuster needs to see is not disturbed. The insurance company will need a police report to move forward. It’s also a great idea to gather as many supporting documents as possible, including warranties and product manuals.
How Do You Recover from Being Burgled?
Start by cleaning up any physical damage and getting broken windows and doors repaired. If financials were stolen, work towards getting new debit cards, checks and/or credit cards right away. Even online passwords should be changed at this time, especially if a computer, laptop or mobile phone was stolen.
Upgrade Locks to Protect Against Future Break-Ins
It’s no surprise that burglars target homes that will give them the biggest reward for the least amount of effort. The more difficult you can make a burglar’s life, the safer you are. This is the time to call First Lock & Security Technologies. We have the expertise to improve your security. We can discuss better locks and security solutions, as well as expertly install them for you. We want to help you get your life back to normal as soon as possible.
Professional Locksmith Services in San Mateo, Belmont, San Carlos, Redwood City, Woodside, Portola Valley, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, East Palo Alto, Stanford, Mountain View, Los Altos Hills, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Santa Clara, Campbell, Saratoga, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, San Jose, Milpitas & Los Altos, California
Break-ins are traumatic and the team at First Lock & Security Technologies wants to do whatever we can to restore your sense of security and comfort. There are many effective security solutions available, and we are here to help you figure out what will work best for you and your residence. Call us today to learn more about what we can do for you!
