Criminals gravitate to places where they feel safe and secure. They avoid neighborhoods where they are likely to get caught. When they are neither wanted nor welcome, they go someplace else. Leave some lights and a radio on when you are out. A deadbolt lock is a good deterrent to burglars.
Burglars know all the secret hiding places.
If the door is braced, the only way a burglar can get through it is to break it. Motion sensor lights and other good lights don't let a burglar hide in the dark. If you go on vacation, stop deliveries or have one of your neighbors collect mail and papers. Houses with alarms are avoided by burglars. The Argyle Police Department, now has on staff, two certified crime prevention inspectors.