Manchester

Greater Manchester residents told to be vigilant ahead of tomorrow’s ‘Crime Night’

In previous years, there's been more than 300 reported cases of burglary reported on this date.

Emily Sergeant - 11th November 2021

Residents right across Greater Manchester are being told to be vigilant and take extra precautions tomorrow night.

That’s because Friday 12 November has been dubbed as ‘Crime Night’.

How did this name come about then? Well, according to a new study and research done by Churchill Home Insurance, statistics reveal that this is the time that people in the UK are most likely to be burgled, as in previous years, there’s been more than 300 reported cases of burglary reported on this date.

Although it’s not entirely known why, this spike in crime is said to most likely correlate with the clocks going back, and analysis of home insurance claims over the past three years has shown that burglaries increase by a third (34%) during the winter months.

It’s estimated that nearly £900,000 worth of valuables could be stolen on ‘Crime Night’ alone, as the typical burglary claim costs in excess of £2,700, according to HullLive.

November sees around eight hours and 37 minutes of sunlight every day, which is nearly two hours less than October (10 hrs 32 mins).

This is why Churchill is warning residents to be extra vigilant with the safety of their homes.

70% Brits believe that their home is at greater risk of burglary during the darker months, with over three quarters (76% or 15.8 million people) of those over 55 feeling the most at risk, compared to 65% of those aged 18-34 (9.5 million), and 68% (11.7 million) of those aged 35-54.

But despite people feeling that they are at more risk of burglary over the winter period, apparently, many are unwilling to make changes to their properties to better protect themselves.

For example, nearly half of Brits (49%) aren’t planning to install additional locks on windows and doors, and 54% wouldn’t install smart security systems such as a ‘Ring’ doorbell to protect their home from burglary.

If you are looking for some tips to keep your property safe on so-called ‘Crime Night’ though, then Churchill Home Insurance has some suggestions.

• If you have a security alarm, use it – burglars will be able to tell if the alarm is not used and serviced regularly.
• Ensure other items that may be used by burglars for breaking and entering, such as ladders or hammers, are locked away and out of sight.
• Ask family, friends, or neighbours to pop around, leave a light on or invest in timed lights when you are away.
• Make sure all windows and doors are locked
• Try not to leave packaging for new expensive goods outside your home, as it can attract burglars and unwanted attention.

Featured Image – Pxfuel