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A window well cover that is not secured is a danger. Homeowners who have clear covers placed on their window wells can learn a lesson from a Chicago-area woman, who recently returned home in the early afternoon and noticed immediately that something seemed off. When she pulled up to her home, she realized the basement door was open, but thought that she may have accidentally left it open earlier in the day. She also figured that perhaps her sons were home, but they did not answer when she went inside and called for them. As she moved into the kitchen, she saw a shadow and suddenly heard footsteps on the main level racing to get outside. The home burglary victim knew before she even called police that her most precious possessions might be gone for good. When police arrived, the burglar was long gone and she noticed cash and jewelry missing. The police discovered footprints that led to a covered window well which allegedly was not secured. It was simply removed, and a basement window broken to gain access. It is unclear whether the cover had never been secured correctly, or whether it was an oversight by the homeowner. Crime Prevention Burglars are opportunists who do not want to be caught, which is why this Aurora burglar was perusing the neighborhood in the early afternoon: Burglars know that is when homeowners are usually at work or school. The burglar likely noticed the window well area, which can provide an easy hiding spot while thieves work to gain access to a home. Many homeowners also adorn these areas with shrubs, which provides instant cover for burglars. In order to make a home less appealing to a burglar, keep shrubbery near access points short and to a minimum. Even when this is done, an unsecured window well cover may be just too tempting for a burglar to overlook. By nature of their design, window well areas can be prone to trapping wild animals and are also a nice hiding spot for burglars. However, a secure cover should withstand basic burglary techniques, ultimately proving too much of a hassle for a criminal. Different cover models of varying quality levels are worth looking at. Safety First Another option that can also help prevent accidental falls into window well areas is a locked grate. Instead of a clear cover, grates are easier to see (helping to avoid falls) and, depending on the material, may be sturdier. However, homeowners should still assess their outdoor area regularly to ensure all exterior entrances, including window wells, are maintained, clear and secure. The vast majority of break-ins are avoidable. In fact, most burglars gain access simply by strolling through the front door. However, spotting a window well means a burglar just needs to quickly walk by and see if the grate or cover is actually secured. If not, it is easy to break the glass to a basement window and quickly slip inside. Ensure your window well areas are secured and protected, because if you don’t, burglars may do the checking for you.
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window, window well, window well cover, theft, burglary, secure windows,
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