ALERT: How to beat the burglars and ensure your property is safe this Summer
KILKENNY gardai have urged householders who are jetting off on holidays this Summer to ensure their properties are locked and secure while they are away.
The warning comes as local gardai announced they will be carrying out a range of initiatives to clampdown on burglaries this month.
On June 19, to coincide with a EU wide ‘Focus Day’ on burglaries, local gardai will be manning extra crime prevention and awareness checkpoints.
A local Garda spokesperson said: “The main goal of the campaign is to step up the fight against burglaries by warning and informing EU citizens on how they can prevent burglaries themselves.”
Kilkenny-Carlow Division Chief Superintendent Dominic Hayes said: “An Garda Síochána are happy to support this European burglary prevention initiative. Whilst burglary rates have been fallen, particularly in winter months, we cannot be complacent.
“I would advise homeowners to secure their properties during the summer months, where one-in-four burglars enter the property through an open door or window. Thefts of tools, equipment and bicycles increase by a third during the summer. An unlocked shed or unsecured bike are easy targets for the burglar.”
Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Peter McConnon added: “Remember to make your home look occupied, particularly if you intend to be away for an extended period. Once your home is locked and alarmed, ask a neighbour to regularly check your property, use timer switches or apps to turn on lights, cancel deliveries, redirect post, tidy the garden and watch what you post on social media. Keep the surprises for your holiday and not when you return.”
