Based on the just released crime stats, Dialdirect Insurance shared trends that are evident from their claims data with the media.
“Homes that aren’t thoroughly secured, have only one security measure in place or have one of their security features temporarily disabled, are prime targets. South Africans are advised to do a thorough security audit and better safeguard themselves as thoroughly as their means allow,” Maanda Tshifularo, head of Dialdirect Insurance mentioned in a BusinessTech article.
The following trends are evident in their claims data:
- Home burglaries occur most frequently between Thursdays and Saturdays, with a spike in the frequency of incidents during the months of April, July, August and December.
- Although entry through front doors and windows are common, there’s been an increase in the number of claims where entry is gained through the garage.
- The most commonly stolen items during a burglary are electronics, with televisions, decoders, cameras and jewellery featuring high on criminals’ ‘shopping lists’.
- With home burglaries, where occupants are home, vehicles are often also stolen in addition to possessions.
A report in Media24 this morning notes a new trend. Burglars break in via the roof, which enables them to disarm the alarm system. This appears to be the work of a syndicate, and although only currently experienced in the Plett area, it is likely to spread like a rash once the word gets around.
Click here to read more about the trends as well as additional lines of security that every South African home should consider – good tips to share with your clients.
