Bur­glary

Every year, about 450 home burglaries are reported to the police. There are a few things you can do to reduce the chances of burglary. It is important to get into the habit of locking all doors and windows to make it more difficult for burglars. Balcony doors and doors facing the garden on the ground floor are entryways and therefore need to be properly locked. A security system is a good option and there are many solutions available.

Going on holiday?

• Get a neighbour or relative to clear the mail and even mow the lawn if you're going to be gone for a long time.

• Keep a spare car in your parking space and tell your neighbours you're leaving. Ask them to monitor the comings and goings of strangers on your property.

• Lock all doors and windows to prevent easy entry. Balcony doors and doors facing the garden on the ground floor are also entryways and therefore need to be properly locked.

• A security system is a good option and there are many solutions available.

• If you take photos during your summer vacation and share them with your friends, make sure those photos are not visible to everyone online.

The damage is both emotional and financial.

Burglary causes a variety of inconveniences and damage. Vandalism may be committed in the burglary. Windows or doors are broken and the cost to fix them is even greater than the value of what was stolen. The emotional damage is also often great. It can be very unpleasant to have a stranger walk through your home and rummage through your household contents and personal belongings. The aftereffects can be long-lasting and manifest as fear, anxiety, and an uncomfortable feeling of leaving the home for fear of burglary. Anger and self-blame are also known reactions.

What are they looking for?

• Portable valueables that are easy to sell.

• Laptops, phones, tablets, clothing/branded goods.

• Jewellery, movable property, and works of art are another example.

• Bicycles, scooters, and electric bikes must be locked with a strong lock if they are left outside, and it is a good rule to write down the serial number. The website reidhjolaskra.is invites bicycle owners to register their bikes there, which can facilitate recovery if they are stolen.

Vehicle break-ins

• Remember to always lock the car securely.

• It is especially important to never leave valuables in the car.

• Leave the vehicle so that you cannot see anything when you look through the window.

• Store the car in a garage or locked basement if possible.