Don't make it too easy for burglars

'Evening out? Lights on and door locked!" is the message this winter. During the "dark months," most burglaries are committed. Try to prevent a burglary in your home.

Here are some tips to reduce the chances of a break-in: 

  • Give your home a lived-in look. Use time switches and motion sensors.
  • Close windows and doors and lock everything. Even if you are just going to run errands or walk the dog.
  • Never leave keys on the inside of the door.
  • Put valuables out of sight.
  • Start a neighborhood prevention group in your neighborhood, such as through Whatsapp.

Call 112 for suspicious situations
Tell your neighbors to call the police immediately via 112 in case of a suspicious situation. For example, in case of glass shattering/tumbling in your house while you are not there or seeing unknown persons in your yard. Raising the alarm quickly means a greater chance of catching the burglars.

Don't wait until it's too late, get started on secure living yourself
The recognized Politiekeurmerk Veilig Wonen (PKVW) companies located throughout the country will be happy to give you expert advice on good hardware. Visit www.politiekeurmerk.nl. Residents with this mark have up to an 80% lower chance of a burglary. Several home contents insurance companies offer discounts if your home is PKVW-certified.