On October 29 and 31, Michael Meinerzhagen - responsible for crime prevention at the Olpe district police department's advice center - informed all interested parties about the topic.
After the coronavirus period, the number of domestic burglary cases has risen again in 2022. 23,528 cases were registered in 2022. In 2023, the NRW police counted around 27,061 cases and the trend appears to be continuing in 2024. This is why the advice centers of the district police authorities provide information on the topic every year as part of the state campaign.
Single-family homes are particularly popular with burglars. Michael Meinerzhagen knows which potential weak points thieves use to break into the house: “Doors and windows at ground level that are easy to open are particularly common targets for burglars. Windows at a higher level can also be used if they are easily accessible via a ladder - such as garbage cans or balconies”. Simple tips can be a great help in preventing theft. Avoid tilted windows, keep the lights on even when you are away, inform your neighbors that you are away or on vacation and call 110 if you suspect a theft. If a theft does occur, a list of valuables is helpful for informing the insurance company and police.
Creating more security within your own four walls
If you want to protect yourself even more effectively, you can improve the burglar resistance of your own home: The possibilities for increasing the security of windows and doors are almost endless. From mushroom head locks and additional locks with alarm protection to special protective film for windows, anyone can equip their own home. The Crime Prevention and Victim Protection Advice Center is on hand with help and advice in these cases: “People often only contact the police once a break-in has already occurred. With our measures, we can help even before the actual crime, so that in the best-case scenario it doesn't happen at all,” explains Michael Meinerzhagen. “Our advice is also free of charge. As an authority, we are a neutral point of contact that does not focus on economic benefits,” he adds.
Free consultation appointments can be arranged by telephone on 02761-9269-6131.
Further information on the crime prevention office of the Olpe district police authority can be found at https://redaktion-olpe.polizei.nrw/kriminalpraevention-im-kreis-olpe
