Five tricks burglars use to target your home before breaking in from chalk markings to kidney beans dumped at your door

BURGLARS have countless crafty ways of identifying their next targets.

From creepy chalk markings to a tin of kidney beans, here are five tricks to look out for to keep your home and belongings safe.

1. Strange markings

Chalk markings on the pavement or wall outside a house is a method of picking out a potential victim.

A triangle, for example, indicates a single woman lives at a property alone, while a circle is a promising target.

Vertical lines often implies there are valuables inside, and a circle with a line through means the house should be avoided as there could be security cameras or an alarm.

Other markings include the letter 'M' which indicates the home is best targeted in the morning, and 'N' means burglars are best to strike at night.

2. Kidney beans

Dumping a tin of kidney beans on your front doorstep is another way burglars can identify you as a potential target.

The clever tactic sees crooks monitor whether the mess is cleared up over the coming hours and days.

If not, then it is likely that you are not home and the house is, in their eyes, fair game.

It is especially sneaky as neighbours might assume it was an accident while bringing the shopping in, or kids just messing around.

3. Unfamiliar cars

When you have lived somewhere for a while, it quickly becomes noticeable if there is a new car on the street.

It may be that your neighbour has simply got a new motor, but if it becomes clear this is not the case, it could be someone scoping out your property.

Take particular notice if the person doesn't leave their vehicle, or regularly parks outside your house specifically.

If you are able to, take note of any registration plates you think might be suspicious.