This article is from page 3 of the 2006-01-10 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 3 JPG
MORE than 300 homes in Clare were burgled last year, which is on a par with the figure for 2004.
The homes of three out of every 1,000 people living in the county were raided last year, which is a decrease on four homes out of every 1,000, back in 2002. While east Clare was plagued by a spate of burglaries towards the end of last year, gardaí say breakins were not confined to any one area.
According to the Crime Prevention Officer in Clare, Sgt Gerry Barry, 45 per cent of all burglaries happen by forcing doors or windows open, while the remainder occur after intruders gain access through open windows or doors.
“In the majority of cases, cash or jewellery is stolen, while small electrical items, including mini disc players, are taken,” said Sgt Barry. “A number of firearms are being stolen. You should have a firearms cabinet to secure property.”
A lot of burglaries take place during the day when people are at work.
“People must be more security conscious. A lot of gangs are travelling around by day and they can spot places where they target. There have been a lot of burglaries in east Clare lately, but it is happening all over the place. Three per 1,000 of the population might sound a lot but it is not massive. However, a lot can be avoided. If you have an alarm system, make sure it is turned on,” he said.
The Crime Prevention Officer is warning people to take necessary steps, in an effort to keep burglars away from their premises or homes.
“You shouldn’t keep cash in the home. Expensive jewellery should be photographed and keep a copy of the picture. Burglars watch out for signs like milk not being taken in and keys being left on flower pots, or on the porch.
“If you leave your curtains drawn, it is known that no-one is at home. If people see the curtains are open and no lights are on, they know that no-one is at home,” he said.
Tools contained in garden sheds should be locked up, as all too often they are used to break into homes.
“Power tools are a favourite and they should be marked properly. They are used to commit crime, both here and elsewhere,” said Sgt Barry.