A welcome 8% decrease in burglaries in 21 Garda divisions over the last 12 months.

The recent Central Statistics Office (CSO) crime report outlines positive trends for burglaries over the last 12 months* compared to the previous 12 months** with an 8% decrease in burglaries (9,117 incidents) occurring nationally. This data could indicate that more homeowners are actively reviewing their home security measures and getting alarms to secure their homes throughout the country in the effort to combat burglaries. 

Over the last 12 months, 21 of the 28 Gardaí divisions have experienced a decrease in burglaries. The divisions with the highest rate of decreases in burglaries are Dublin Eastern Gardaí division at -26%, Wicklow at -23%, Cork West at -22% and Dublin Southern Gardaí division at -21%. 

It should be noted however that 7 Gardaí divisions have had an increase in burglaries, 4 of these divisions are in the West of Ireland, with Clare reporting the highest increase of 23% (197 burglaries), followed closely by Mayo with a 22% increase (169 burglaries), Sligo and Leitrim division had a 17% increase (151 burglaries combined) and Galway 1% (385 burglaries). While Louth, Wexford and Dublin North Central all increased by 8%.  

Since the start of 2022, there have been over 16,300 burglaries, which is far too many and it proves that as homeowners, we still have a lot more work to do.  

It’s important for every new and existing homeowner to put home security measures in place to limit the chances of being burgled. It’s encouraging to note that a recent survey**** conducted by PhoneWatch in December 2023 showed that of those homeowners searching for an alarm, 87% of recipients opted for a monitored alarm as they know that they’ll be protected 24/7 and that the peace of mind it provides is worth the monthly monitoring fee.   

Eoin Dunne, PhoneWatch Managing Director advised; “There were 8,452 new dwelling completions in quarter 3 2023***, an increase of over 14% on the same three months of 2022. As the availability of new houses thankfully rises, it means that the need for home security within these houses is necessary. At PhoneWatch we actively advise people on the home security features best suited to their homes and individual needs and budget.” 

Home burglaries are incredibly intrusive, and the effects of a break-in can last for several months. You can mitigate the chances of enduring a burglary by protecting your home through safety measures, including installing a monitored alarm system. with a monitored alarm. According to An Garda Síochána reports, 26% of burglars enter homes through the back door, 24% via back windows and 8% through front windows, with 1 in 5 cases involving a burglar gaining access through an unsecure door or window. PhoneWatch urge homeowners to always be alert and protect their homes in all ways possible. The below four home security safety tips will effectively reduce the risk of burglary within your home. 

• Get a monitored alarm: Having a monitored home alarm will keep you protected 24/7 whether you are at home and away. PhoneWatch’s system also monitors against smoke incidents. 
• Secure your house keys: Don’t leave house keys hidden outside, instead consider giving your neighbour or friend a spare set of keys for emergencies.  
• Lock windows and doors: Always lock your doors and shut windows when you aren’t home.  
• Safeguard your valuables: Never leave car keys, cash, jewellery, or any valuable items openly on display, as this may tempt any burglar in your area. 

PhoneWatch urges homeowners to protect their homes and families by installing a monitored alarm system. For more information on regional burglary rates and PhoneWatch’s January 2024 burglary report visit: www.phonewatch.ie/burglaryreport.

*Analysis period:  Q4 2022 – Q3 2023 
** Analysis period:  Q4 2021 – Q3 2022 
*** Analysis period: Quarter 3 2023 refers to July, August, and September 
**** A survey undertaken by PhoneWatch via Typeform with 200 respondents in December 2023