DON’T GET SPOOKED OUT BY HALLOWEEN BURGLARS
Businesses told to be braced for break-ins spike
BUSINESS owners have been urged to secure their warehouses in the run-up to Halloween when attempted break-ins soar.
Security experts say criminals take a holiday from nicking businesses in September with attempted bids down. But the raids soar again in October with intruders targeting businesses for bonfire material. Netwatch spokesman Mick Galwey said security breaches in September slumped by 26.3%, but are set to soar again in the weeks before Halloween. The latest statistics say Limerick is one of the hardest hit areas. Car showrooms and warehousing were targeted and saw an increase of more than 20% in unwanted activity. Data from last September shows 9pm 12am are the most threatening times for businesses. Mr Galwey said: “Last September security breaches did subside slightly on our client sites, but that did not mean there was less need for security. “If you look at Limerick, they have had an increase in incidents across car dealerships, retail, building sites and warehouse. “While there was a decrease nation- wide, businesses should still pay attention to remaining secure.” Building sites and retail experienced high levels of suspicious activity throughout this summer. Attempted security breaches only began to subside midway through September of last year. In the same period, daytime raids were about 26.3% lower than August and October 2016. Most attempted burglato ries happened between 8pm and 9pm. This trend looks likely to continue as almost half of all attempted security breaches last month were between 6pm and 12am. Limerick’s building sites have long been a target for criminals throughout the summer and are one of the sectors that did not see a fall in August. Netwatch sites in Limerick last month were in line with national trends, which saw an 8% drop particularly on the weekend particular between 12pm and 6pm. In September last year about half of all break-ins happened midweek, with Wednesday being the most active day. Business owners have been advised to ensure all cameras are in working order and to make sure their properties have appropriate lighting to deter intruders.