Burglary is a serious and common crime in California, accounting for 15.9% of the state’s property crimes in 2022. While you may think you have found the perfect hiding spot for your valuables, it may be more obvious than you think. Burglars often know where to look for easy targets and quick cash. Here are seven of the most common places that burglars check first when invading California homes.

1. Entryway Drawers and Cabinets

The entryway is the first place that burglars see when they break into your home, and it may also contain some of your most valuable items. Many homeowners store their keys, wallets, purses, jewelry, and other important documents in drawers or cabinets near the front door. This makes it easy for burglars to grab them and go.

2. Freezers

You may think that hiding your cash or jewelry in the freezer is a clever idea, but it is actually one of the most popular places that burglars look. Freezers are often used to store large amounts of money, drugs, or other contraband, and burglars know this. They may also check your fridge, pantry, or other kitchen appliances for hidden valuables.

3. Vases

Vases are another common hiding spot for valuables, especially small items like rings, earrings, or coins. Vases are usually decorative and easy to access, making them attractive to burglars. They may also look for other containers that could hold something valuable, such as jars, bottles, cans, or boxes.

4. Suitcases

Suitcases are not only used for traveling, but also for storing valuables that you don’t use often or want to keep out of sight. Suitcases are usually large, sturdy, and lockable, making them ideal for hiding expensive items like electronics, jewelry, or firearms. However, burglars also know this, and they may look for suitcases in your closet, under your bed, or in your attic.

5. Office Drawers

If you have a home office, you may have some valuable items in your desk drawers, such as laptops, tablets, cameras, or hard drives. You may also have important documents, such as bank statements, tax returns, or passports, that could be used for identity theft or fraud. Burglars may target your office drawers, especially if they are locked or have a keyhole, as they may indicate something valuable inside

6. Mattresses

Mattresses are another classic hiding spot for valuables, especially cash. Many people stash their money under their mattress, pillow, or bed sheet, thinking that it is safe and discreet. However, this is also one of the first places that burglars check, as they know that many people do this. They may also look for other hiding spots in your bedroom, such as nightstands, dressers, or closets.

7. Toilet Tanks

Toilet tanks are often overlooked as hiding spots, but they can actually be used to store valuables that are waterproof or sealed in plastic bags. Some people hide their cash, jewelry, or drugs in toilet tanks, hoping that burglars won’t bother to look there. However, this is also a common trick that burglars are aware of, and they may check your toilet tanks for any hidden treasures.

Conclusion

Burglary is a serious threat to your home and your valuables, and you should take precautions to prevent it. However, you should also be careful about where you hide your valuables, as some of the most common hiding spots are also the most obvious to burglars. Instead of using these places, you should consider investing in a safe, a security system, or a hidden compartment that is more secure and less predictable. By doing so, you can protect your valuables and your peace of mind.

7 ‘Secret Spots’ Burglars Check First When Invading California Homes