DUBLIN homeowners have been urged to improve home security after recent figures revealed that there were almost 10,000 burglaries in the capital over the last 12 months.
According to new statistics released last week by the CSO, there were 9,636 burglaries across the city in the last year.
Following the release of the latest CSO Crime Statistics Report, Eoin Dunne, Managing Director of PhoneWatch, Ireland’s leading provider of monitored alarm systems, said there was a significant decrease in burglaries across the country.
“This is extremely welcome, however, the number of incidents is still worryingly high and should be a reminder to all homeowners of the importance of vigilance and home security,” Mr Dunne said.
Figures for the year to June show a 26.3 per cent decrease in the number of reported burglaries — one of the biggest annual drops ever recorded.
Official crime figures published by the CSO also show decreases in robberies, thefts, shootings and incidents of damage to property.
“We should all feel safe and secure in our homes, but being the victim of a burglary undermines this and can be very upsetting,” Mr Dunne added.
“As we enter the winter months the extra hours of darkness increase the risk of burglaries.
“Every year in PhoneWatch we see a significant increase in attempted break-ins between October and January.
“As we enter the ‘burglary season’, we want to remind all home owners to take simple but necessary steps to avoid intrusion.”
Mr Dunne recommended a series of security tips to homeowners to boost their home’s security.
Always ensure your front and back doors are locked and windows shut, even if you are only leaving your house for a short time.
“Our analysis shows that 45 per cent of burglars gain entry through the front or back doors and yet a quarter of people still leave these unlocked,” Mr Dunne revealed.
“You should never hide a spare key in your garden but instead provide one to a neighbour.
“Fitting and maintaining a monitored alarm system is an excellent way to protect your home, it acts as a strong deterrent and provides the peace of mind of knowing that your home is being protected 24 hours a day.”
For more information on the importance of home security and what measures you can take to protect your home and family, visit www.phonewatch.ie or call (01) 2135271, where a dedicated security advisor will discuss all available options with you.