Burglary statistics in October and during the fall break: A dangerous increase you should know

Every year, we see a significant increase in burglaries in the fall, especially in October and during the fall break season. The combination of earlier darkness and vacant homes due to vacations makes this time of year particularly attractive to burglars. In this blog, we take a detailed look at the burglary statistics for October and the fall break season, their causes, and what you can do about them.

1. Increase in burglaries in October: What do the numbers say?

According to an analysis by the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), burglaries in Germany experience a significant annual increase in October. This is also confirmed by a study by the German Insurance Association (GDV), which shows that the number of burglaries is up to 40% higher in the autumn months than in the summer.

The evening hours are particularly affected. Statistics show that burglaries occur more frequently between 5:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., when it's already getting dark outside and many residents aren't yet home. In contrast, burglaries in the summer are often observed during the day, as houses and apartments are often left unlocked due to the good weather.

2. The particular danger during the autumn holidays

The autumn holidays, which in Germany take place in October or early November depending on the federal state, represent another high-risk period. According to a study by the North Rhine-Westphalia police, the risk of burglary increases by up to 50% during holiday periods, as many families go on vacation and their homes remain unoccupied for several days or weeks.

Burglars often specifically monitor residential areas to identify empty houses. Signs such as overflowing mailboxes, permanently closed shutters, or a lack of lighting also make houses appear particularly vulnerable. Berlin's 2023 police statistics show that 25% more burglaries were reported during the fall break last year than in other months.

3. Why autumn is so dangerous

There are several reasons why autumn is a peak season for burglars:

• Early darkness : In October, dusk begins in the late afternoon, providing more cover for burglars.
• Absence of residents : During the autumn holidays, many houses are empty for several days, without regular presence or supervision.
• Unsecured homes : Many homes lack adequate security measures such as surveillance cameras, motion detectors, or burglar-proof doors and windows, making it easier for burglars to commit their crimes.

A report by the GDV also emphasizes that burglars often only need a few minutes to break into an unprotected house and steal valuables.

4. Regional differences: Where do most burglaries occur?

Burglary rates vary regionally. According to figures from the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), large cities and metropolitan areas are particularly hard hit, especially the outskirts of major cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt. This is because these regions often have more vacant apartments and houses during the holiday season, and anonymity is greater.

In rural areas, the risk of burglary is lower in October and during the fall break, but it should still not be underestimated. Here, too, it is clear that burglaries occur particularly in unoccupied and poorly secured homes.

5. How to protect yourself against burglaries in October and during the fall holidays

The good news: With the right security measures, you can effectively protect your home. Here are some recommendations based on police statistics and security experts:

• Smart surveillance cameras : Modern cameras like those from Weber Protect offer motion detectors, night vision functions, and alarm notifications sent directly to your smartphone. So you can keep an eye on your home at all times.
• Video doorbells : These systems allow you to monitor visitors and deter potential burglars before they enter the property.
• Lighting and presence simulation : Use timers or smart lighting systems that randomly turn the lights in your house on and off to create the impression that someone is home.
• Connect with your neighbors : Talk to your neighbors before you go on vacation. They can keep an eye on your house and take immediate action in case of anything suspicious.

Conclusion

Burglary statistics for October and the fall break season are alarming. While darkness and the absence of residents play into the hands of burglars, you can significantly improve your home security with the right precautions. Use modern technology from Weber Protect to start your fall break with peace of mind and learn about the best methods to prevent burglaries. Protect what's important to you – your home and your family.

The security experts at Weber Protect will be happy to help you analyze your individual security needs. A comprehensive security concept doesn't have to be expensive. You don't need to hire expensive contractors for Weber Protect's security products. You can install and configure all the products yourself.

Our range of security products offers everything you need to protect your home. Our video surveillance products protect your home from the front door to the garden.

Please visit our website or contact our customer service for individual advice:

Weber Protect Customer Service
Mon – Fri: 09:00 – 17:00
Phone: +49 (0)30 318765100
Email: info@weberprotect.com

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Sources:

• Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) : Yearbook of Police Crime Statistics
• German Insurance Association (GDV) : Analysis of burglary figures for 2023
• Police North Rhine-Westphalia : Crime statistics burglary offenses