The number of house burglaries in Latvia is decreasing every year, but the State Police continues to urge people to take various preventive measures to reduce the risks. Home security is particularly important during the long holidays when many people are away for long periods, Latvian Radio reports.
In 2018, more than 2,000 burglaries from dwellings were recorded in Latvia, compared to around 700 last year, and so far this year the State Police has not observed any trend of an increase in the number of cases.
However, during the holiday season, these crimes become more frequent every year as many homes are empty.
Inese Novicka, Chief Inspector of the Multidisciplinary Prevention Unit of the Prevention Management Bureau of the General Directorate of the National Police, reminds the public about various security measures in dwellings.
“But despite such positive trends that the number of thefts from dwellings has decreased, the State Police calls on people to take even more care about the security of their homes. Christmas time and long holidays, maybe some will go away, children will have a break and go on a trip, visit friends and relatives. So when you leave your home, please make sure that your front door is locked and windows are closed, including balcony and loggia doors. If your home has an alarm system, make sure it is working. And tips about installing CCTV cameras, light and motion sensors, secure window switches are still topical. And the home alarm system, which is essential, needs to be both inside and outside the house,” said the police spokeswoman.
Thefts from both private homes and apartments are recorded all over Latvia, and mostly items are stolen that can be easily removed from the home and later sold for a quick profit.
These items include jewellery, computers, mobile phones, money, household appliances and the like. The police also urge people to use social media sensibly when talking about prolonged absences from home, which can also attract the attention of thieves.
“But we also see that residents are actively involved in various activities, for example, forming groups on social networks and setting up neighborhood associations. People exchange information, including about suspicious things. About suspicious persons. I would add here, however, that suspicious persons in the vicinity of the house, strangers in stairwells, suspicious cars must be reported to the State Police. The police will certainly take note. We will assess the report, as it is common for thieves to go into stairwells and backyards to check whether it is possible to enter the property. Yes, we urge people to be vigilant here,” said Novicka.
For Latvians speakers, the State Police also recommend looking for safety tips on the website “manadrosiba.lv” .
