Significant increase in burglaries in Mayo over past 12 months

There has been a significant increase in burglaries in Mayo over the past 12 months, it has been revealed.

According to PhoneWatch, recent Central Statistics Office (CSO) recorded crime statistics have shown that there has been a 22% increase in burglaries in the Mayo Gardaí division over the last year, which is the second highest Gardaí division increase in the country. There have been 9,117 burglary incidents nationally during the same period.

According to An Garda Síochána reports for national incidents, 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 urges homeowners to always be alert and protect their homes in all ways possible.

Seven Garda divisions have had an increase in burglaries, four 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%.

Eoin Dunne, Managing Director of PhoneWatch advised: “There were 8,452 new dwelling completions in quarter 3 2023, an increase of over 14% in 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, individual needs, and budget.” 

You can mitigate the chances of enduring a burglary by protecting your home through safety measures, including installing a monitored alarm system. 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 urges homeowners to always be alert and protect their homes in all ways possible.

Follow these home security safety tips to 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 for 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 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 a burglar.

PhoneWatch urges homeowners to protect their homes and families by installing a monitored alarm system.