Burglary rates remain flat in Wexford

PhoneWatch, Ireland’s leading home security provider is urging homeowners to adhere to home security recommendations as national burglary rates rise…

The Central Statistics Office (CSO) has released figures showing that the number of burglaries in the Wexford Gardaí division remain flat in the 12 months of 2024 compared to 2023 with 297 burglaries occurring. This is a positive outcome that there hasn’t been any increase, but all homeowners need to acknowledge and address their individual home security measures, to help combat the national issue.

On a national level, 9,728 burglaries were recorded across Ireland in 2024, which is a 2% increase on the previous year, making it the third consecutive annual rise in recorded crime statistics. The latest data reveals that 13 of the 28 Garda divisions reported an increase in burglaries, underlining growing concern in both rural and urban areas regarding home security. The increases have been widespread across the country, with no province experiencing specific rising trends.

However, some Garda division endured a concerningly high increase. The highest increase in burglaries was in the Wicklow Garda division, which experienced a 45% (342 burglaries) increase in burglaries in 2024 compared to 2023. The Limerick Garda division burglaries increased by 25% (579 burglaries) and Tipperary by 23% (356). Homeowners in these counties need to be even more cautious to ensure their homes are safeguarded 24/7.

The report did also reveal constructive outcomes with 15 Garda divisions citing a decrease in burglary rates. Which is a positive direction that needs to be replicated across more counties. The Mayo Garda division cited the highest reduction in burglaries at 33% (119 burglaries). The Cork West Garda division also had a significant decrease at -28% (53 burglaries), Galway Garda division at -17% (343 burglaries) and Dublin North Central Garda division decreased its rates by -13% (538 burglaries).

Security experts and law enforcement agencies are prompting homeowners to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect their homes.

Eoin Dunne, PhoneWatch Managing Director commented: “This third consecutive yearly upward trend in burglary rates highlights the importance of prioritising home security. Prevention is key, simple steps can make a significant difference in deterring criminal activity. Each homeowner needs to take responsibility for protecting their home and in turn their communities. At Phonewatch we firmly believe, and have sound evidence which proves, monitored alarms significantly reduce your chances of being burgled’.

Top Tips 7 for Protecting Your Home and Family this Summer

As we begin to organise our summer holidays, it’s the perfect time to review your home’s security effectiveness and make necessary changes to safeguard your home and family. This is vital for when you’re at home and even more so, when you’re away from home, especially for lengthy time periods.

Lock All Doors and Windows: Even when at home or in the garden, ensure all entry points are secured.
Install a Monitored Home Security System: 24/7 monitored alarm systems act as powerful deterrents. Their interactive apps allow you to receive real time alerts, so you can check in on your home when you’re away.
Light Up Your Home: Give the appearance of occupancy even when you’re away. Home security systems also have smart plugs, that can be put on timers or turned on instantly when needed.
Secure Entry Points: Reinforce doors and install deadbolts or additional locks where needed.
Know your neighbour: Build up a strong relationship with neighbours and ask them to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. Do the same for them!
Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Avoid leaving expensive items visible through windows.
Trim Hedges and Bushes and mow lawns: Eliminate hiding places for potential intruders near doors and windows by keep hedges trimmed. Mowing your lawn before you go on holidays, portrays that it’s freshly done, and you may not be away.
Be Cautious with Social Media: Wait until you return from holidays to post any pictures on social media. If you do so while on holidays, you could be highlighting to potential intruders that you’re away.

With burglaries on the rise, vigilance and preparedness are crucial. The CSO and law enforcements will continue to monitor burglary trends to support public awareness and policy response. And PhoneWatch will always be here to discuss all your home security needs.

For more information on how to protect your home and review the full regional burglary rates, please visit www.phonewatch.ie/blog/posts/home-invasion-statistics/

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