Seen At 11: Easy Tricks To Prevent Burglars From Targeting Your Home

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork)-- For most people keeping your home safe from burglars is a top priority.  However, what you may not know is just how easy it is to become a target of a burglar's bull's eye.

"The invasion of your privacy -- that's the worst part," one burglary victim told CBS2's Dick Brennan.

The woman was too fearful to identify herself after her home was burglarized, and says she feels she has lost her sense of security along with her family jewelry.

"I have, now, the blinds closed constantly," she said.

What kind of homes do burglars look for and could your home be a target?

"They find ways into our homes that we might not have predicted," Geoff Manaugh, author of "A Burglar's Guide to the City," said.

Manaugh studied how burglars operate and said it helps to think like a burglar to prevent being a victim. He said they look for opportunities that offer easy access.

"This kind of thing would be an ideal hand hold or something you can use to climb up to the second floor," he said, pointing to a patio railing.

He cautions that online building plans and photos can help crooks plan a fast escape.

"You want to know there's a way out before you ever go into the place so you'll make sure there's a side door; you'll make sure there's a window you can jump out of if you have to," Manaugh said.

Even where you live can be a factor. Retired NYPD Detective Joe Gialcone said homes near highway entrances are at risk of being targeted.

"They could burglarize your home and they just jump right back on the parkway and they're gone," he said.

While privacy fences might look nice, Gialcone said they offer perfect cover once a burglar hops over.

"He or she can operate without anybody noticing from the street," he said.

Home alarm systems and security cameras can thwart most burglaries, but there are simpler fixes.

One quick fix? Replace half-inch standard size door screws with three-inch screws. When individuals tried to kick down the doors in a demonstration, the longer screws made all the difference, at a cost of less than 20 cents.

Burglars may have their methods, but with some smart moves homeowners can avoid catastrophe. Experts say protecting yourself is common sense practice.

Another tip? Get to know your neighbors as they might make it easier to spot suspicious activity in your neighborhood.