Summer trips are a time of harvest for burglars. As Poles decision for well-deserved rest, criminals begin precise observations of unattended homes and apartments. Increasingly, their first step is not to force the locks, but to leave a discreet signal. Police all over Poland are calling for increased vigilance and warning: a tiny symbol drawn with chalk, pencil or even discreetly inserted in the door a leaflet may be a sign that the premises have been selected as the mark of the burglary. To ignore specified a signal could cost a lifetime's worth. This is not an online myth, but a real and increasingly utilized method of communication in the criminal world. knowing what these codes mean and how to respond to them becomes crucial to the safety of our property, especially during the vacation season.
An alphabet of thieves, what do mysterious symbols mean?
Criminal groups have been utilizing their own circumstantial code for years to supply information about possible targets. It's a strategy of simple graphic characters that, for an uninitiated eye, look like an innocent kid scribble or random scratch. However, for the thief, each of them carries a concrete and valuable message. Police officers and safety experts point to respective recurring designs that should immediately light a red lamp.
These signs frequently appear on doors, frames, intercoms, or even on mailboxes. Here are the most popular of them and their meaning:
- Diamond or diamond: It's 1 of the most dangerous signals. It means the flat is empty and the owners are gone. It's actually a green light for burglars.
- Triangle: This symbol tells us that a single female lives in the apartment, which, in the opinion of criminals, may mean an easier target.
- Cross or ‘X’: This is simply a very disturbing sign, which suggests that the flat has already been "preserved" and is simply a ready-to-break goal. The plan is most likely ready.
- Waveline (zogzak): This symbol warns another thieves to avoid this place. The most common means that there is simply a vigilant dog or aggressive tenant in the apartment.
But that is not all. Thiefs besides usage more subtle methods. Coin left on the mat, leaflet pressed into the door slot or part of duct tape on the lock These are attendance tests. If no 1 removes them for a fewer days, it's a clear signal to the criminal that the household has gone distant for longer.
A summertime break-in summit. Police statistic don't lie.
Police data from erstwhile years are clear: it is from June to September that the highest number of burglaries in homes and apartments is recorded. Empty settlements, quiet on stairways and visible signs of absence of tenants make perfect conditions for criminals to operate. Last year, on 1 of the settlements in Krakow, residents reported massively the appearance of mysterious symbols at the door, which caused legitimate concern and police intervention. akin signals reached from Warsaw, Wrocław and Tricity.
Criminals are perfect observers. Filled letterbox, blinds obscured for days or full darkness in windows after dark are clear signals for themThat the road is free. They act quickly, quietly and most frequently under cover of night or in the mediate of the day erstwhile most of the neighbors are at work. They take advantage of the minute erstwhile social vigilance is weakened and the chance of catching in the act is minimal. That is why it is so crucial not to make it easy for them to do their occupation and knowingly cover their absences.
How to effectively defend your flat from holiday? Key principles
Although the methods of thieves are becoming increasingly sophisticated, there are a number of simple and effective ways to minimize the hazard of burglary. The key is prevention and cooperation with the environment. Here are the most crucial rules to remember before going on vacation:
First, alertness and immediate response. If you announcement any different sign, sign or object at your neighbor's door or door – remove it immediately. Take a image of him and tell him about the another residents and the local police station. Even a seemingly insignificant signal can be valuable information for officers.
Second, vicinity cooperation. Ask a trusted neighbour or household associate to regularly empty the mailbox, take leaflets from the door and periodically light the flat at night. It is simple actions that make an illusion of presence and can effectively deter a possible burglar.
Third, do not inform about your departure on social media. Publishing real-time vacation photos is an invitation for thieves. Hold your relation until you get back. Make certain your profiles are private and only available to trusted friends.
Fourth, invest in simple security. Even inexpensive, smart plug sockets let distant or automatic switching on and off lamps at different times, which perfectly simulates the presence of householders. Good quality locks with a certificate is an absolute basis, which importantly prolongs the time required for the crossing of doors.
Vigilance is essential. Simple steps that can save your possessions
In conclusion, the safety of our home depends mostly on our own foresight and awareness of threats. The thieves are based on our indiscretion and routine. Remember, the mysterious signs on the door are not urban legend, but a real threat that must not be underestimated. Immediate removal of symbols, informing neighbors and police and ensuring that our home "lives" even during our absence is the most effective weapon in the fight against burglars. A fewer simple steps before going on vacation may decide whether we find an intact home or a plundered flat upon our return. It is worth remembering erstwhile planning this year's vacation.
Continued here:
Mysterious sign on the door? Police are warning. It's a sign that the thief is already watching you.
