Keep your home safe this summer with tips from David Nance

CHICAGO (WLS) -- When it comes to summer vacations, we may see it as a long awaited chance to get away. Security experts warn that for burglars, it's a prime opportunity to get in.

On average, a burglary is taking place in the country every 14.5 seconds, causing $15 billion in damages annually. That number goes up in the summer months.

"It can take just five minutes for three burglars to get in your home, case the entire place, take what they want and get out," personal safety expert David Nance said.

Nance said it doesn't take long for someone to become a victim. Criminals look for soft targets.

"A target where they can get in and out as quickly as possible without being caught," said Nance, describing a soft target. "They're looking for homes that look like people are not there for an extended period of time. It makes their job that much easier."

Simple things like trees and bushes can make a big difference. Nance said if your doors are visible from the street, that's good.

"If they're covered, an intruder can go behind them (the trees and bushes) and get access to your home without being seen," Nance said. "So that's a big thing they look for."

Nance said a window on your door can make it easy for a burglar to break through, go around and unlock the door. He also said to consider whether your home is protected by a dog.

"Beware of dog signs, barking, even a dog bowl can be a deterrent for an intruder," Nance explained.

A security alarm is a great deterrent of course. Homeowners can find affordable ones to install themselves. Nance said they should be at least 120 decibels.

"One hundred-twenty decibels is the sound projected from rock concert - it's loud." Nance said.

Another option to consider if you're worried about a break-in while you are home is a door stop alarm that's equally loud.

"It not only sounds 120 decibels, it prevents inward opening doors from opening so it will keep them out," Nance said. These alarms can be very useful for apartments, dorm rooms and even hotel rooms.

Security experts said in addition to the time when residents are not home, the other window of opportunity for someone to gain access to a home is between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m., when people are in a deep sleep.