Friday Is A Favourite For Thieves – Are You Protected?

Summertime means vacation time – unfortunately, it also means an increase in break-ins and burglaries. What many clients don’t realize is that there are some very simple measures they can take to ensure their premiums don’t take a hit.

Residential burglary claims increase dramatically over the summer months. Compared to February – which has the lowest frequency of burglaries – July, August and September show an increase of 24 percent, 36 percent and 18 percent respectively.

Before the packing begins, protect your home and belongings from theft while away from the home:

• • Keep your upcoming vacation plans off of social media and remind your kids to do the same. While you may be diligent with who can see what you post, some of your friends may not have tight privacy settings;
  • Consider upgrading the locking systems on your doors and windows. Also inspect window or door frames to ensure thieves could not easily force entry;
  • Ensure all windows and doors are locked when out of the home or overnight, and when moving into a new property have the locks changed;
  • Make a home look occupied when you’re away. Park a car in the driveway, leave some household lights and a radio on, ask a neighbour to collect mail and newspapers and mow your lawn;
  • Install a security device with a loud alarm or flashing lights. Some alarms contact authorities directly when they have been activated;
  • Do a home inventory with your video camera, it will take minutes, but will save you the stress and heartache of listing all of your possession. The Aviva customer survey also indicates only half of respondents have some form of home inventory.

Value of thefts increasing

The good news is the frequency of burglary is on the decline in Canada; the bad news is the value of property being stolen is on the rise.

Friday is a favourite for thieves

Break-ins are more common at the start of the weekend, with Friday showing the greatest incidence at 25 per cent higher than Sunday, the day with the lowest incidence of break-ins. Thursday also shows a high rate of break-in frequency at 19 per cent higher than Sunday.

Protect your valuables and your home.