Warning issued about 'opportunistic crime' as clocks go forward this week

A warning has been issues about 'opportunistic crime' as clocks go forward this week. Co-op Insurance is warning the general public to be more diligent when it comes to home security as the clocks get set to ‘spring’ forward this weekend (Sunday 27 March),

The company analysed data from November 2016 to August 2021 and found that 46% of claims for home thefts occurred during the summer months - which is 10% more than in winter months.

READ MORE: Warning issued about worrying new technique used by burglars to break into homes

Opportunistic crimes, which are committed without planning- such as theft of bikes and parcels- account for nearly half (42%) of claims during the summer months. They tend to happen when windows and doors are left open, or when people are out in their gardens.

The data also showed that in 2021, Tuesday was most common day for thefts to occur. Last year, almost a fifth of burglaries (18%) between March and October took place on a Tuesday, making it the day for homeowners to be on their guard.

Additionally, Co-op Insurance said that one in 10 thefts were due to residents being ‘distracted’ by thieves posing as bogus callers. The number of thefts that take place due to homeowners being ‘distracted’ also increased to one in ten (10%) when the clocks go forward.

Distraction or deception break-ins occur when thieves mislead people by posing as bogus callers to gain access to properties.

Andrew Nevitt, Head of Co-op Home Insurance, said: “The return of brighter mornings and longer days mean we’re often excited at the increased opportunities to get out and about. But it’s important that homeowners recognise that the threat of burglary is greater than ever, particularly as many of us are returning to our