Home insurance provider buzzvault has examined the burglary numbers recorded by the Office for National Statistics in 2019, and here we give you a lowdown of the findings.
According to buzzvault’s analysis, 58% of burglary victims were home during the crime, with 26% even seeing the perpetrators. In addition, 25% were home but unaware they were being burgled while 7% knew but didn’t see the burglars.
It was also found that 39% of burglaries took place in the morning or afternoon. Meanwhile 40% experienced violent and threatening behaviour during the incidents.
“No-one should have to experience the trauma of having their home burgled,” said buzzvault founder and chief executive Becky Downing, who is a burglary victim herself. “And despite the figures showing a decline, we mustn’t forget that more than 380,000 offences were recorded in the last 12 months.
“Being a victim is a frightening experience for anyone, but particularly for those who were home at the time of the incident – and this happened to six in 10 people.”
Downing added: “Burglaries are more common during the winter months, particularly with the darker mornings and nights. And there are several steps you can take to try and reduce the risk of being a target for thieves. Installing security measures, locking windows and doors, and keeping valuables out of sight can help to deter criminals.
“Most of all, make sure your home and contents is covered so that you’re financially protected should the worst happen.”
