The festive season traditionally sees a sharp increase in domestic burglary as homes are filled with valuable presents and residents are away visiting friends and family.
Research suggests that there are 11%* more burglaries in January than the annual national average. On average, a British household will spend around £560** on presents and other seasonal products, making properties a tempting target for thieves.
Christian Harper of Chiswick estate agent OliverFinn: “Christmas is a time when most homes are full of expensive items such as new PS3’s, the latest iPhones and iPads, and Plasma TVs.
"This corresponds with an increase in empty
properties in W4 at this time of year as residents visit friends and relatives.”
Prevention tips to avoid burglary
A convicted burglar has recently written to police offering an insight into what deterred him from targeting particular properties. Before starting a five year jail sentence Leon Reid explained what features would stop him from targeting a property for burglary.
In his letter, Reid said he would not select a property with any of the following:
- A well-lit premises
- The presence of a dog
- Anti-climbing paint on drainpipes, balconies etc..
- Barrier fencing above garden gates and perimeter walls
- Motion sensor lighting
- Beware of dog stickers
- Alarm warning stickers
- Pebbles/shingle near rear patio doors
- CCTV camera (dummy or live)
- Pad sensors behind doors/windows
- ‘Switch house alarms on’
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Astbury, in charge of Serious Acquisitive Crime: “We will use the information Reid has provided us and through the Safer Neighbourhoods Teams reiterate to residents the need to make sure their homes are protected.
“What is compelling about Reid’s offending is that he has never forced entry. He entered through open windows and doors of premises that did not have one of the aforementioned deterrents. It speaks volumes really and should make us all ask ourselves how secure our homes are”
Chiswick safer neighbourhood teams. Further tips and
advice on home security from Metropolitan Police.
Sources: *HSBC **
Crimestoppers
