New data reveals that the number of burglaries in the Wexford Gardaí division has decreased by 5% in the past 12 months*, compared to the same period the year prior** with 292 burglaries occurring. This was the joint second highest decrease across the country. Leading home security expert, PhoneWatch highlights that this is a positive outcome, but homeowners still need to be vigilant and take more proactive steps to continue to improve their home security measures.
According to the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), nationally burglaries have risen sharply across both urban and rural areas. It highlights the urgent need for all homeowners to review their home security measures. On a national level, burglaries increased by 10% in the same period with a harrowing 9,981 occurring. The data outlines that 21 of the 28 Gardaí divisions have experienced an increase in burglaries within this period. With the combined Roscommon and Longford Gardaí division enduring the highest rate of increase in the country at 56% (277 burglaries), Tipperary increased by 50% (371 burglaries), Westmeath by 35% (272 burglaries), Wicklow increased by 33% (301 burglaries) and Limerick by 27% (571burglaries).
The CSO report did also outline other positive decreases in burglaries within some Gardaí divisions, as the Mayo division cited the highest decrease in burglaries at -19% (137 burglaries), Dublin Eastern division decreased by -5% (361 burglaries).
Eoin Dunne, Managing Director of PhoneWatch commented; ‘This 10% increase in burglary rates means that 878 more homes compared to the previous 12 months had to endure a burglary and the traumatic aftermath that comes with it. Even one burglary is one too many. In a recent survey*** conducted with Bounce Insights, it’s no surprise that 50% of homeowners outlined that they’re more concerned about a break-in in their home now compared to a year ago. Regardless of whether burglary rates increase or decrease in your Gardaí division, our message to Irish homeowners never changes. It’s imperative you take control of your home security, as burglars are opportunists and identify a weakness in security very quickly and capitalise on this. Homeowners need to act on their security concerns and implement simple but effective home security recommendations, to help deter burglars from their homes.
Home Security Safety Tips
With this rise in burglaries across most Gardaí divisions, homeowners are urged to take the following steps to enhance security and reduce the likelihood of a burglary.
- Get a monitored alarm: Having a monitored home alarm will keep you protected 24/7 whether you’re at home and away. PhoneWatch’s system also monitors against smoke incidents. Arm it and check for updates via our app when you’re way.
- Use lights: Put your lights (inside and outside) on timers so that even when you’re away your home doesn’t appear empty.
- Neighbour assistance: Ask a neighbour to take in you post and bins while you’re away, so that it looks as if you’re home.
- Maintain your garden: Keep your lawns cut and shrubs pruned, so it looks freshly done, especially if you’re going on holidays.
- Lock windows and doors: Always lock your doors and shut windows when you aren’t home. Never leave spare keys under the mat.
- Social media updates: If you are posting holiday pictures on social media, do so when you’re back home.
Authorities and Experts Urge Vigilance
While Gardaí continue to work diligently to curb burglary rates, homeowners are reminded that prevention is a shared responsibility. An investment in security measures, coupled with increased vigilance within local communities, is key to reducing the likelihood of becoming a victim of burglary.
The rise in burglaries highlights the importance of prioritizing home security to protect not only personal property but also the sense of safety and peace of mind that every homeowner deserves.For more information on how to protect your home and regional burglary rates, please visit https://www.phonewatch.ie/blog/posts/ireland-crime-statistics/
Wexford Weekly
This article was published by a member of the Wexford Weekly team.