Mild vandalism

Criminals may test the response to a burglary by performing little vandalism on the home shortly before the burglary. A rock thrown through a side window may appear to be the work of juvenile vandals, but it could have been thrown to see if your home has a security system and how you react to it. Will the cops arrive quickly? Is it possible that a neighbor will be awakened? Will the window be left open for days?

Exterior lighting is frequently targeted as well. Burglars may unscrew or shatter lightbulbs during the day so that they can plunder your home in the dark when the time comes. Don't disregard these problems if you notice them. They could indicate that a break-in attempt on your home is approaching.