Safe home this Christmas: Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Ciaran McLoughlin

EVERY winter, the number of burglaries increases as the darker evenings draw in, but there are measures people can take to protect their homes and belongings from would-be thieves.

Crime prevention officer Sergeant Ciaran McLoughlin, who is based in Rathfarnham Garda Station, offered some advice and tips for Echo readers to deter burglars this festive season.

“The best advice is to light up and lock up,” he said. “So if you’re home in the evening, check that your windows and doors are locked and closed.

“When you’re checking your outside doors are locked, check your car doors are locked too – a lot of cars are broken into because they get into the front door and take the keys.

“When you’re going out, leave lights on at the front of the house to give the illusion that you’re in, or set a timer switch for the lights to come on.

“Another of aspect of burglaries relates to jewellery and cash. The advice is don’t store them in your house, but if you do, make sure they’re in a safe that’s bolted to a wall.

“We’ve had a few instances where jewellery that has been kept in a safe [and not bolted to a wall] was removed and stolen, which defeats the point of the safe.”

While burglaries are decreasing year-on-year, it’s still important to securely keep your personal belongings and to prevent being a victim of thieves.

“Burglaries are down year-on-year, but this is the time of year when they peak, when the dark evenings come in,” said Sgt McLoughlin.

“They’re more likely to break into a house that looks vacant – most burglaries occur between 4pm and 9pm, because that’s when most people are coming home from work or going out for food.”

Sgt McLoughlin also had some salient advice for anyone who may have received extra social welfare payments this Christmas.

“If people are getting extra social welfare payments, they need to make sure they carry it securely on their person,” he said.

“Don’t leave it in the car or on the kitchen table.”

If anyone sees anything suspicious, they should contact their local garda station.

For further information visit HERE or contact Sgt McLoughlin on 01 666 6564.

He is available to meet with residents, community groups and businesses in Tallaght, Rathfarnham, Terenure and Crumlin to advise them on crime prevention.

“Hopefully everyone will have a peaceful and safe Christmas and New Year, and if they take these small measures, it’ll reduce the risk of any unwanted visitors,” added Sgt McLoughlin.