Burglaries rise by 8% in winter
Published On 26 October 2006
New figures by Halifax Home Insurance have found that during the colder winter months, the number of burglaries increases by eight per cent.In particular, the number of forced entries increases by a sizeable 21 per cent during the winter period, which equates to one forced entry every minute.
Thieves thrive at this time of year because of the cover given to them by dark winter nights and the ability to see whether residents are in by the increased lighting in people's homes.
Commonly used methods by burglars are forcing the door lock (38 per cent), forcing a window open (22 per cent), breaking a door panel (16 per cent) and breaking a window (14 per cent).
However, homeowners can take heart from the fact that simple security measures such as the introduction of deadlocks on doors and window locks can reduce the chances of burglary by up to ten times.
Vicky Emmott, Halifax Home Insurance, said: "As the nights get darker and winter approaches, householders should be taking as many precautions as possible to ensure their homes are secure.
"Simple measures like adding extra high quality locks on windows and doors, installing burglar alarms and security lighting should also be considered if homeowners really want to bolster their home security."
