Mitchelstown Gardai have urged home owners to be extra vigilant and to take steps to protect their property, as the clocks go back this weekend. Typically, burglaries increase by 25% during winter.
Figures from An Garda Síochána Analysis Service show that the peak time for residential burglaries is between 5pm and 11pm in the winter months.
The analysis also shows that nearly 50% of burglaries in winter, take place through the rear of the home, while 20% of households are entered by burglars through an unsecured door or window.
A Garda spokesperson said darker evenings and lax security can make it easier for burglars.
"The longer evenings can help burglars spot if people are not home. For instance, they can easily see if a house is empty, if rooms are unlit, curtains are open, and there is no car in the driveway. It also makes it easier for them to enter a residence without being seen.
"We would urge the public to follow a number of basic steps to increase their home’s security. Don’t be one of the 20% that allow burglars easy access through an unsecured point. Lock your windows and doors, and try and make them tamper proof locks.
"Light up your house – use timers on lamps inside if you’re going to be out, and make sure you have an outside light that is tied to a motion sensor.”
An Garda Síochána is also advising people that 'fishing', which sees burglars place implements such as adapted fishing rods through letterboxes to 'fish car and house keys from hall tables, can result in houses being easily entered or cars being stolen from outside the house.
SIMPLE MEASURES
An Garda Síochána recommends people take the following steps to reduce the chances of their home being burgled:
- Secure all doors and windows
- Light up your home and use timer switches on lights for when you are out
- Store keys safely and away from windows and letterboxes
- Record details of valuables and don’t keep large cash amounts at home
- Use your alarm, even when you are at home.
Reducing burglaries and related thefts is a major priority for An Garda Síochána.
If you see any suspicious behaviour you can contact Mitchelstown Garda Station at (025) 84833 or Fermoy Garda Station at (025) 82100.
