THE CORONAVIRUS pandemic has led to a decline in burglary – yet South Wales Police recorded nearly 5,000 burglaries last year.

The force recorded 4,685 burglaries between January and November of 2020 – this statistic may seem shocking, but it’s a 17 per cent decrease when compared with January to November 2019.

During April to June of 2020 there were 1,067 burglaries reported to South Wales Police – this is 31 per cent less than for that timescale the previous year.

In November 2020, there were 438 burglaries reported to South Wales Police – a 20 per cent drop from the number in November 2019.

A breakdown of the 4,685 cases of burglary reported to South Wales Police by month:

- January: 515

- February: 465

- March: 459

- April: 360

- May: 317

- June: 390

- July: 470

- August: 446

- September: 419

- October: 406

- November: 438

Penarth Times:

 

These 4,685 burglaries reported to South Wales Police are out of a total of 252,828 in Wales and England between January and November 2020 – this is the equivalent of 755 burglaries a day!

Across the UK, January was the worst month for burglaries (31,016) and May had the lowest number of cases (18,343) which is also reflected in South Wales Police data.

Throughout the UK there was a 24 per cent decrease in burglaries, believed to be a result of the coronavirus pandemic meaning that people spent more time at home.

This research was shared by OnlineMortgageAdvisor.co.uk who have offered these ‘top burglary prevention tips’:

1. Check Doors and Windows

Before going out (or going to bed) make sure all your windows are closed and doors properly locked.

To prevent prying eyes ensure you close all curtains and blinds before heading out or sleeping.

2. Motion-Activated Floodlights

Consider fitting a motion-activated floodlight at the front and back of your property.

Burglars want to quickly sneak in and out without any detection, so a motivation-activated floodlight is likely to deter them as it puts a direct spotlight on anyone who enters the driveway or garden.

3. Security Markings

Mark your postcode or first line of address on your valuables to make them less attractive to burglars.

You can achieve this by using a police-approved forensic marking solution which is only visible under ultraviolet (UV) light and makes it harder for burglars to sell items and easier for police to identify stolen goods.

4. Invest in the Right Tech

If you’ve not already done so, it could be worthwhile to install a reputable burglar alarm and CCTV camera.

This reduces the chance of your property being targeted.

Additionally, a smart doorbell will enable you to keep a close eye on your main door and catch any opportunistic criminals who try tamper it or the letterbox.