Home Security Facts and Statistics

Did you know that in the United States, a home is burglarized every 15 seconds? Or that an estimated 522,500 structure fires occur each year, resulting in thousands of deaths and injuries? These statistics highlight the importance of having a home security system in place to protect your loved ones and your belongings.

Burglary Facts

FBI reported that there were 847,522 burglaries in 2022 plus approximately 1.5 million burglaries go unreported every year according to the Department Of Justice. That’s 1 burglary per 50 properties, 1 burglary every 4.5 seconds.

• Average loss due to a burglary was $2,700
• 67% of all burglaries were residential
• 29% of residential burglaries occurred at night
• Most residential burglaries occurred during a weekday
• 58% of burglaries involved forcible entry
• 28% of burglaries someone was present during the burglary
• 14% of burglaries resulted in arrests
• 70% of all break-ins involve the use of a door
• 85% of burglars are male 14-21 years old
• 65% of all burglaries are drug related 50% would be someone you would recognize
• The first place a criminal goes is the master bedroom for cash and jewelry

For more burglary facts and statistics visit Burglary FAQ

Sources: FBI UCR 2018, BJS Criminal Victimization (Table 4), BJS Crime and Drug Data, BJS National Crime Victimization Survey

Hate Crime Facts

According to the FBI there were 11,634 reported hate crime incidents in 2022, which is 794 more than in 2021.
66.1% of these incidents were crimes against persons, followed by 31.8% against property and 2.1% against society.

• Race, ethnicity, or ancestry was the most common motivation, with 6,557 reported incidents.
• Religion-based hate crimes came second with 2,042 incidents, over half of which were anti-Jewish.
• Anti-LGBTQI+ crimes also saw a rise, with 1,697 incidents reported.
• Black and African Americans were the most frequent victims of race-based hate crimes.
• Gay men and lesbians were the most targeted groups in LGBTQI+ hate crimes.
• Intimidation was the most common type of crime (46.4%), followed by simple assault (34.8%) and aggravated assault (17.6%).

Source: FBI UCR Hate Crime Statistics, Department of Justice – Hate Crimes

Fire Facts

U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 522,500 structure fires in the U.S. in 2022. (source NFPA). Sadly, these fires resulted in 2,910 civilian fire deaths and 11,720 civilian injuries. The estimated direct property damage reached $15 billion in 2022.

Fire Frequency:

While data doesn’t provide an exact time between fires, 2022 statistics suggest a fire occurring roughly every **63 seconds**, highlighting the importance of preparedness.

Leading Causes:

• Cooking:** Remains the leading cause, responsible for **31%** of home structure fires in 2022 (NFPA).
• Heating:** Heating equipment fires have increased, now causing **22%** of all home structure fires (NFPA).
• Electrical:** Electrical issues remain a significant risk, causing **8%** of home structure fires (NFPA).
• Other:** The “other” category, including careless use of smoking materials and flammable liquids, is at **18%** (NFPA).

Escape Time:

Experts recommend aiming to evacuate within **2 minutes** after a fire alarm sounds. Every second is crucial, so ensure a practiced escape plan is in place for everyone in your household.

Fire Temperature and Duration:

• Temperature:** While individual fires vary, peak temperatures can reach **over 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit**. Immediate action is essential.
• Duration:** Early detection and intervention are critical. Don’t wait for someone to see the fire; prioritize escaping safely within your planned timeframe.

Remember:

Fire safety is paramount. Always:

• Maintain working smoke detectors and fire alarms.
• Practice home fire drills regularly.
• Educate everyone in your household about fire safety measures.

Sources: NFPA Fire Statistics, USFA Statistics

Carbon Monoxide and Flooding Facts

Carbon monoxide (CO), an odorless, colorless gas can cause sudden illness and death, is produced any time a fossil fuel is burned.

• Accidental carbon monoxide poisoning is responsible for 393 deaths every year and around 27,000 seek medical attention.
• 36% of the deaths occurs in December, January, or February.
• One inch of flood water cost $27,000 in repairs.
• Few homeowner’ policies actually cover flood damage.
• Flooding accounts for more than $1 billion each year in property damage in the United States.

Sources: CDC, FEMA

Don’t Become a Statistic

• 1 out of every 5 homes will have a burglary, fire or carbon monoxide poisoning over the next 6 years.
• 1 out of every 3 homes will suffer from a medical emergency this year.
• 9 out of 10 convicted burglars agreed that they would avoid a house protected by an alarm system.
• An ADT home security system can help protect against intrusions, poison gas leaks¹, flood disasters², fires³, and emergencies.

Break-ins can be devastating. Homes with security systems are 3X safer. Take action now and install an ADT security system to avoid being a statistic. 24/7 monitoring. Trusted for over 140 years.

Sources: Federal Bureau of Investigation, 2016 Uniform Crime Report. Simon Hakim, Temple University. International Association of Chiefs of Police. National Fire Protection Association. National Safety Council. Journal of the American Medical Association.
Requires purchase of ¹carbon monoxide sensor, ²flood sensor, ³smoke/heat sensor.

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