LC Lomax says his phone is ringing off the hook with people wanting to protect their homes with metal installations. He says it's especially important for families planning to leave for the holidays.
"Thieves actually take the time to scoop you out and when they know that you're gone, they check your routine they will do the break-in,” said Lomax.
Within the last month there have been 340 break-ins in Kansas City. Cameras can help catch the thieves, but there are more preventive measures you can take.
For example, a door-jam used to stop a door from being knocked down can help. Just this week, Kansas City Police released video of a front door being knocked down in south Kansas City.
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"With screws extended into the framing if someone tries to kick it, it redistributes the weight within the 24 to 36 inch plate," said Lomax.
The door-jam, including installation, costs about $160. Fixing the door can cost hundreds.
“You have to buy a new door, you have to buy new locks, so depending on the price of the door it can change from 700 plus,” said Lomax.
Window bars can also help stop thefts too.
"When you see it, the window bars, it detours you," said Lomax.
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Window bars cost around $150 plus installation, but replacing the windows will cost you more.
"If it's a newer pain window double pain, it's about four or five hundred dollars and we still have to think about after they get in what else they can get,” said Lomax.
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Ali Hoxie can be reached at ali.hoxie@kshb.com
