This morning, as I left my house, a small cross drawn on my front door immediately caught my attention. ❌🚪 I had already heard about these mysterious symbols, but seeing them in real life is a whole different experience 😟, it’s a shock. Curious and a little worried, I decided to investigate to understand what they mean. What I discovered? It deserves our full attention. 🔍⚠️ 👇
The coded signs of burglars: a secret language
Did you know that some criminals use symbols to mark their targets? These marks, discreetly drawn with chalk, pencil, or even stones, are used to communicate valuable information between them. Here are some common examples:
– A cross: house targeted for burglary. ❌
– A diamond: vacant, easy-to-access home. 🔷
– A triangle: a woman lives alone. 🔺
– A crossed circle: nothing worth stealing here. 🚫
– A zigzag: beware, dangerous dog. 🐕⚡
Thieves even code the ideal times to act: “N” for night, “D” for Sunday, or “DM” for Sunday morning. Their language is clever, but it’s crucial to decipher it to avoid the worst.
Burglar tricks: smarter than ever
1️⃣ Invisible glue thread
A simple glue thread placed between your door and its frame can show whether it has been opened recently. If the thread remains intact, it means no one has entered… valuable information for burglars.
2️⃣ The fake delivery man
An unknown person arrives with a package and insists on entering your building. Behind his smile might be someone scouting the area.
How to turn your house into a fortress
🔒 Protecting your home doesn’t mean living in fear but adopting simple and effective reflexes:
1. Simulate presence
Automatic lights or devices simulating a turned-on TV can deter burglars. 💡
2. Be discreet about your absence
Ask a neighbor to empty your mailbox and avoid posting your vacation on social media. 🌍🚫
3. Install deterrent devices
Cameras, alarms, or even signs indicating security measures in place can scare off criminals. 🎥🚨
4. Reinforce entry points
Add security bars to windows and opt for multi-point locks on doors. 🏰
5. Erase any suspicious symbol
At the slightest mark, clean it immediately and report it to the police. 🚔
If the worst happens: act quickly and effectively
Even with all precautions, no one is completely safe. Here’s how to react:
– Contact the police: filing a report quickly is crucial. 📞
– Notify your insurance: provide a copy of the report and an inventory of stolen items. 💼
– Take care of yourself: a break-in can be traumatic. Psychological follow-up can help you regain your peace of mind. 🧠💙
Prevention is protection
Burglaries often happen during the day, between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., when homes are empty. Taking proactive steps, recognizing signs, and staying alert are simple solutions to protect your home and maintain your peace of mind.
So, ready to turn your house into an impregnable fortress? 🛡️✨
