Most of us tend to believe we've discovered foolproof secret hiding spots for our valuables at home, thinking burglars would never think of searching there. However, according to a recent report by Reader’s Digest, our seemingly ideal hidey-holes might not be as secure as we assume.

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What If I Have A Safebox?

Your personal vault or money box might seem like the safest place for storing precious jewelry, money, or important documents. The reality, however, is different. Burglars will instinctively search for these strongboxes knowing they're likely to contain high-value items. If it's portable, it's an even easier grab.

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Where Should I Avoid Hiding My Valuables?

With crime rates continuously fluctuating across the country, it's important to take extra steps in securing our valuables at home. Unfortunately, there are certain common hiding places that thieves are very much aware of, so you might want to reconsider using them if you’re in South Carolina, or any part of the world, for that matter. Below are some spots you need to steer clear of.

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9 'Secret Spots' Burglars Check First When Invading Homes

If you're storing money, passports, or other precious items in any of these 'secret places,' you may want to relocate them immediately.

The secret spots we believe are safe from burglars are actually the most unsafe. Some of the first locations burglars inspect for valuable possessions may astonish you. Are any of your valuable possessions concealed in the following areas?

Where Should I Hide My Valuables?

Home safes can be a good option, particularly those that are fireproof and waterproof. Make sure the safe is secured to a wall or the floor so it cannot be easily carried off. Renting a safety deposit box at your bank is also a good choice for important documents and other small valuables.

As technology advances, home security has also stepped up a notch. Nowadays, you can get a home safe that's hidden behind wall panels, fitted inside a drawer, or embedded in the floor. Additionally, smart home technologies are worth considering as they allow real-time monitoring, remote access, and motion sensor alerts for added protection.

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Keep in mind that having a solid home security system doesn’t just deter criminals, but it could also help lower your homeowner's insurance premium. Speak with your insurance agent to discuss potential discounts.

Remember, the goal is to protect your valuable possessions from falling into the wrong hands. It starts by making the right decisions on where to hide your valuables or how to secure them, whether it’s through investing in a good home safe, getting an updated home security system, or avoiding common hiding places. No method is foolproof, but some options are certainly more effective than others. Be smart about protecting your hard-earned belongings and don't make it easy for burglars.

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