Burglaries remain a persistent problem, and thieves are constantly refining their techniques to get into homes without being noticed. But there’s a surprisingly simple and inexpensive way to spot — and possibly deter — an intruder: a glass of water placed in just the right spot.
Why burglars are hard to catch
Most burglars don’t act impulsively. They often case a property in advance, learning the routines of the occupants and looking for weaknesses. This preparation means they can get in and out quickly, leaving little trace.
There are usually warning signs if you know what to look for:
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Scratches or marks around doors or windows.
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A damaged or tampered lock.
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Unusual footprints or disturbed objects in the garden.
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Neighbours noticing unfamiliar visitors making repeated trips past your home.
Spotting these early can give you the chance to act before a burglary happens.
How the glass-of-water trick works
The idea is simple: place a full glass of water directly on your doormat, just behind your front door. If someone opens the door while you’re away, the glass will tip over, spilling water onto the floor.
This serves two purposes. First, it acts as a silent alarm — you’ll instantly know someone has tried to enter. Second, it might discourage an intruder who realises they’ve triggered something unusual, signalling that the homeowner is alert and security-conscious.
You can also use a water bottle instead of a glass, positioned so that moving the door knocks it over.
Other unusual burglary tactics to watch for
Criminals have been known to use some surprisingly creative methods to mark or access a property:
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Squirting glue or acid into locks to disable them.
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Using drones to inspect gardens and entry points.
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Leaving symbols or marks on doors, bins, or even utility meters to signal to other thieves that a property is empty or valuable.
Checking your property regularly for these signs — and removing anything suspicious — can reduce your risk.
Extra tips for keeping your home secure
The glass-of-water trick works best alongside other common-sense precautions:
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Ask a neighbour or family member to check in while you’re away.
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Avoid posting holiday plans on social media.
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Empty your letterbox regularly so it doesn’t overflow.
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Install sturdy locks, double glazing, or reinforced window seals.
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Keep valuables out of sight.
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Use motion-sensor lighting or a connected security camera.
While no single method can make your home completely burglar-proof, the glass-of-water trick is a low-cost, low-effort safeguard that can give you an early warning — and perhaps make a would-be intruder think twice. Sometimes, the simplest ideas are the most effective.
