As the winter season begins, police warn of an increased risk of burglaries, a trend that persists during the darker months. Recent statistics show a concerning rise in home thefts, particularly during early evening hours.
Pascal Neyman, Chief of the Nivelles-Genappe police zone, highlighted the issue, stating, "From November to February, we observe the most burglaries annually." This period, characterized by shorter days and longer nights, sees a significant increase in home invasions.
In 2022, November and December accounted for nearly a quarter of the year's burglaries, totaling over 8,700 incidents. Burglars prefer twilight hours, around 5 to 6 pm, taking advantage of the darkness without being too conspicuous.
Adopting vigilant measures
Waterloo's introduction of a midnight to 5 am curfew has shown a decrease in these crimes, suggests Alessandro Moschini, Director of Police Operations in the area. He notes that the holiday season, with people often away from their homes, exacerbates the problem.
Authorities emphasize the importance of vigilance, advising residents to report any suspicious activities. Simple preventive measures, like leaving lights on, can significantly deter potential burglars.
In urban areas, the trend is similar. Marleen Coppens, Commissioner of the Montgomery police zone in Brussels, points out that most burglaries occur between 4 pm and 8.30 pm. She recommends using technology, such as smart bulbs and motion-activated lighting, to simulate occupancy and safeguard homes.
As winter approaches, police urge the public to stay alert and take necessary precautions to protect their homes from this seasonal rise in burglaries.
