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Burglary alert: avoid risks during the holiday season
According to the latest data published by STATEC, 12% of Luxembourg’s residents have been a victim of a burglary attempt. Although there are no official figures, it is known that this risk increases during the year-end festive season. Taking advantage of earlier nightfall and less visibility, burglars target homes that appear to be empty during the holidays. An unoccupied home with the blinds down and empty garbage cans is easy prey for thieves. Prepare yourself with these prevention tips.
Burglaries in Luxembourg: an overview
The numbers speak for themselves: two-thirds of burglaries directly target the central dwelling, while 25% involve annexes such as garages. Even more worrisome, single or two-unit dwellings represent close to half (48%) of incidents, followed by apartments (36%). The cantons of Luxembourg and Remich are especially affected, with 10% and 8% of the population, respectively, having been burglarised over the past five years.
Data: Statec 2024
Why are there more burglaries during the winter season?
The Grand-Duchy Police has warned of the specific conditions that make the winter a higher-risk period:
- Early nightfall means more hours of darkness
- The lower visibility makes it easier for burglars
- Longer absences during the holidays make homes more vulnerable
- Christmas gifts can attract theft
Practical tips to protect your home
Do not forget that thieves will generally seek to avoid confrontation and will run if discovered. There is no point in confronting one, it is better to make your presence known by making noise and calling the Police or 113 right away.
We have already written an article on this subject: The nine best ways to prevent burglaries. Here is a summary of our best tips:
Daily security measures
- Lock all your doors and windows systematically, even for short absences
- Pay particular attention to tilt-turn windows, which are easier for burglars to enter through
- Activate your alarm system, even when you will only be absent for just a few minutes
- Light your home as of nightfall
- Make sure your garages and cellars have been secured, these are often neglected but represent 25% of incidents
Essential security equipment
- Alarm system with inside and outside alarms
- Movement detectors with connected cameras
- Outside lighting with movement detection
Vigilant behaviour
- Notify the Police (113) of any suspicious presence
- Do not leave valuable objects in visible places
- Document and photograph your valuable objects
- Keep your receipts for important objects
- Check regularly that your security equipment is working
Protection during long absences
- Tell your neighbours you will be away for greater surveillance
- Don’t advertise the fact you are going on holiday on social networks
- Use the free “Holiday departure” service of the Police, which will carry out surveillance patrols
- Have someone pick up your mail to avoid signs of your absence
- Simulate a presence by installing timers on lights
The importance of full protection with Foyer
STATEC data shows that 37% of household robberies involve financial losses not covered by their insurance – a situation that we strive to avoid with our full coverage adapted to your needs.
Due to these risks, adequate home insurance is essential. Foyer’s mozaïk insurance offers made-to-measure protection that not only covers damage linked to theft, but also assistance and prevention services.
Prevention services
Note that the national crime prevention department (Service national de prévention de la criminalité – SNPC) offers free and personalised advice. Their experts can come to your home to assess the vulnerable points and recommend suitable solutions. They can be contacted at the following:
- E-Mail: prevention@police.etat.lu
- Tel.: (+352)244 244 033
You deserve safe holidays!
During this holiday season, Foyer Assurances remains by your side to support you in protecting your home and your most valued belongings. Security is everyone’s responsibility, together we can help reduce the risk of theft in our community.
Foyer wishes you a peaceful winter and safe and happy holidays with your family!
