Leitrim / Sligo region sees increase in burglaries of 25%, the highest increase nationally

The Sligo/Leitrim has had the highest increase in burglaries over the last 12 months compared to the previous 12 months, with a 25% increase (162 burglaries) in the region.

According to the recent CSO recorded crime figures, although the national burglary rate for the last 12 months has decreased by 8%, some counties have experienced significant increases in the number of reported break-ins, especially in the north and west regions.
Mayo had the second highest rate of increase at 17% (153 burglaries), followed by Louth with an 11% increase (347 burglaries). Donegal’s burglary rate also increased with a 9% increase (146 burglaries).

In the past 12 months over 9,000 Irish homeowners have experienced a burglary in their homes representing a decrease of 8% based on the previous year. 

Eoin Dunne, Managing Director of PhoneWatch said, “It’s important to remain vigilant at this time. The past 12 months have shown a welcome decrease in our burglary levels, however, we should bear in mind that we are coming into the period when typically, burglaries are at their highest, and our homes are most vulnerable. We know that 58% of Irish homeowners fear burglary most in the winter months."
However, there are some very positive take outs from the recent CSO recorded crime data. West Cork has the highest decrease rate of burglaries in the last 12 months at -28% (54 burglaries). Wicklow, Limerick and Tipperary all saw decreases of between 20% and 25%, which suggests these are the counties leading the way in terms of home security measures.
However, research indicates that burglaries increase by almost 20% in winter months, with nearly half of these burglaries occurring between 5pm and 11pm. A recent survey outlined that 64% of people feel less safe in their homes at nighttime.

Eoin Dunne further added, “When you look at the broader data over the last decade it shows that on average, 1 in every 10 Irish homes has experienced a break-in during the last 10 years. We need to get this number down and we want to work with all homeowners to ensure they are taking the necessary steps to keep their homes secure and their families safe, 24/7”.

PhoneWatch’s have devised some simple home security tips to implement to ensure your home, and everyone inside it, is protected this winter and 24/7.
● Lock windows and doors: Always ensure your front and back doors are locked and windows shut. Also, secure garden sheds and your vehicles.
● Secure your house keys: Don’t leave house keys outside, instead ensure your neighbour has a spare set of keys for emergencies.
● Leave a light on: Make sure your home is well lit up. You could invest in smart plugs and turn on lights via a home security app to make it appear as if you are in your home, especially during the night-time.
● Safeguard your valuables: Never leave car keys, cash, jewellery or any valuable items openly on display.
● Ask a neighbour: If you are away from your home for several days, ask a neighbour to take out your bins and bring in your post, so that it doesn’t pile up outside and look as if there is nobody home.
● Get an alarm and use it: Having a monitored alarm system is an excellent way to protect your home, it acts as a strong deterrent to potential burglars and provides peace of mind of knowing that your home is being protected 24/7.

For more information on regional burglary rates and PhoneWatch’s October 2023 burglary report, you can visit it here.