According to the results of the 2021 Security Monitor, 33% of citizens consider domestic burglary to be a major problem in their neighbourhood. No less than 60% say it is a top priority for the police.
According to the Security Monitor, 62% of citizens are aware of local burglary prevention options, but only 13% actually use them. Local authorities and police areas therefore have every interest in promoting their services and encouraging citizens to make use of them. This can be done through information channels such as websites and social media, but also through the neighbourhood officer and, if possible, the burglary prevention adviser.
A few prevention tips:
- Be a vigilant neighbour. If you see anything suspicious in your neighbourhood, don't hesitate to contact the police, by dialing 112.
- If you're away for a while: ask the police to keep an eye on your home while you're away and ask your neighbours/friends/relatives to empty your letterbox. This way, your absence will be less noticed. Do not communicate your absence from home on social media!
- If your letterbox has been broken into, be on the lookout for false invoices in the days that follow.
- Lock your door properly and take your key with you when you leave your home, even if you're only going to be away for a very short time.
- Make an inventory of all the valuables (computer, laptop, smartphone, tablet, money, jewellery, etc.) in your home. This information can help the police in their investigation in the event of a burglary.
- Put valuables away and keep them out of sight.
- Put packing materials, such as boxes, for newly purchased equipment out of sight as much as possible to avoid giving potential burglars ideas.
- Give the impression that your home is occupied when you're away: put lights on a timer, leave the radio on, etc.
- Secure your smart appliances properly: Carry out updates as soon as possible, secure your WIFI network with a strong password and contact experts before buying a smart device.
Source: Simple, free habits to prevent domestic burglaries (only in French and Dutch)
https://www.besafe.be/fr/besafenouveautes/des-habitudes-simples-et-gratuites-contre-les-cambriolages-domestiques
Additional information (only in French and Dutch)
- Secure your home with INCERT electronic systems, a quality brand for the protection of buildings and vehicles against theft in Belgium: https://www.incert.be/
- First aid for victims of burglary: https://www.besafe.be/fr/vol/cambriolage
- Crime statistics: https://www.police.be/statistiques/fr/criminalite
