In light of a recent spate of burglaries in Donegal, Gardaí in the county are urging residents to take steps to protect their homes and property during the winter months.
Burglaries often increase during the winter due to longer nights and reduced foot traffic, making homes more vulnerable to break-ins.
Gardaí have provided the following security tips for residents to follow:
- Turn on some lights (LED bulbs are more energy efficient than traditional bulbs)
- Use timer switches/motion detectors
- Lock all doors and windows
- Use a house alarm (monitored if possible)
- Store keys away from windows
- Don’t keep large amounts of cash or jewellery in the house.
- Lock your garden shed as tools can be taken from it and then used to break into your home.
- Lock your vehicle (even if it is parked at your home) and do not store cash or valuables in it.
Garda spokesperson Niall Maguire says that the direction of travel of suspected burglars is vital information for the authorities: “Always contact Gardaí immediately if you observe any sort of suspicious activity in your area. Take note of registration numbers, description of people, direction of travel etc. as every small piece of information provided can be of great use to us. Look out for neighbours, particularly those who are elderly or vulnerable.”