Home burglaries at highest during the holiday season

Nearly 400,000 burglaries happen in the U.S. during the months of November and December, according to the FBI.

During the holiday season, people are busy shopping and traveling. This makes a perfect combination for burglars.

The average time it takes for a burglar to get in and out of a home is less than 10 minutes.

Boone County detective Tom O’Sullivan told ABC 17 News way to keep your house safe this holiday season.

First, doors should be locked at all times. Deadbolt locks are the best for keeping people out.

Windows should also be secured. If windows are in the basement or ground level, extra precautions should be taken such as window alarms.

Blinds should be shut to keep burglars from seeing what valuables you have inside.

Bushes outside the window should not be taller than the window itself.

O’Sullivan says alarm systems are the best deterrent to keep burglars out. Even for homes without an alarm system, a sticker showing the home is secure may help to prevent criminals from breaking in.

Even though many people find themselves more scared at night, according to statistics, the majority of break-ins happen during the day when no one is home.