Crime spike due as clocks go back

Clocks go back this weekend heralding longer darker nights and an increased risk of burglary.

Home insurance claims rise some five per cent once the clocks go back – according to data from Norwich Union.

Some 39 per cent of people report they feel more at risk of burglary when the clocks go back. However 20 per cent still do not lock their doors and windows at night, 13 per cent admit they still leave windows open when they’re out and 27 per cent do not think about home security at all.

Inspector Russ Wilkinson from Norfolk police., who was involved in the Safer Street campaign to improve security from Norwich Union, said: “Eighty per cent of crime is carried out by opportunist burglars so it is a constant frustration to me that homeowners still leave keys in doors and windows open.

“You can put the best security measures in the world into a house, but what you also need is the homeowners, their neighbours and the wider community to work together, look out for each other and look after their properties.”

Meanwhile Bob Turney, security expert and reformed burglar, said: “Quite simply a would-be burglar is looking for an attractive proposition, be it a purse left on a table or a set of car keys hanging by the back door, so don’t make it easy for them.

“We’re not talking about turning homes into fortresses, just simple steps that will make a criminal think again before they target you.”

Research from moneysupermarket also shows which UK postcodes are most likely to suffer burglary.

DN7 in Doncaster and Bristol’s BS7 district were found to be the most likely to suffer burglary – ahead of Canvey Island (SS8), Nottingham (NG8) and Birmingham (B15).

Seven out of the top 20 UK postcodes for theft and burglary are in Greater London, with TW8 in Brentford and SE27 in West Norwood the most risky London postcodes.

Peter Gerrard, head of insurance research at moneysupermarket, said: “As the evenings are drawing in, and the clocks go back tomorrow night I urge homeowners to be extra vigilant when it comes to security for their homes. An increasing number of opportunistic thieves may take advantage of the longer winter nights. It is a good idea to ensure home contents insurance is fully up to date, and is at a high enough level to cover all belongings sufficiently.”