04 Nov 2020
Posted by Barry Aldworth 
Almost 4 in 10 homeowners in Ireland are more concerned about the risk of burglary this winter than they were 12 months ago – despite the Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions leading most people to spend more time at home than they ordinarily would.
In response to a recent survey of over 3,000 Irish homeowners carried out by AA Home Insurance, 15.23% of respondents strongly agreed that they were more concerned about a home break in this winter than they were in 2019. Meanwhile, a further 24.22% somewhat agreed that their level of concern was higher this winter.
With the winter season in mind, the AA is encouraging homeowners to ensure there is secure against both potential break-ins and weather events. Along with checking that your burglar alarm is in working order, homeowners are encouraged to ensure that any potential points of entry are secure to reduce the risk of someone gaining access to your home.
“Over the coming weeks, many of us are likely to be spending more time at home than we ordinarily would, so it can be easy to think that home security isn’t as important this year. While the increased Garda presence policing the COVID-19 restrictions may also put would-be burglars off, the risks of a break-in typically peak during the winter period and even being away from your home for a short, essential trip could provide a burglar more than enough time,” Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs stated. “We’re all hoping for some slice of normality and pre-Christmas festivities after the current restrictions are eased, but now is the time to double-check that your home is secure. Check the alarm, check any potential points of entry, and check that your home insurance policy is up to date and that you have added any valuable items you may have bought during the past year to your contents cover.”
The survey also found that almost half of us are more concerned about an elderly relative being the victim of a home break in this winter.
When asked about a potential break-in affecting an older relative, 23.33% of respondents strongly agreed that they were more concerned about such an event this winter than they were in 2019. Meanwhile, a further 25.95% somewhat agreed that their level of concern was higher this year
“The current lockdown measures means that many of us have relatives across the country who may be a bit more isolated this year than they would ordinarily be. Even if you can’t visit, now is the time to pick up the phone and make sure they and their home are ready for the risks that winter can bring,” Faughnan added.
