NEW research has revealed Cumbria is one of the ‘safest’ counties in the country for burglary offences – particular at Christmas.

Research from security experts at Get Licensed examined monthly crime data from UK authorities to reveal the peak months for crimes and the regions with the highest crime rates throughout the year.

The findings show Cumbria Police saw the lowest average seasonal change of burglaries per 1,000 people around the country.

In total 0.22 burglaries were committed between February to October with 0.19 less committed between November to January giving an overall seasonal change of -13.2 per cent.

The research found Surrey Police was the force which saw the highest number of burglaries committed over the festive season.  

Commenting on the findings, Detective Superintendent Ian Hussey said: “It is pleasing to see Cumbria Constabulary’s efforts to deter and detect burglaries at all times of the year – including Christmas – recognised in these figures.

“Catching burglars who target people’s homes and stopping these intrusive offences happening in the first place are key priorities for the force.

“Each residential burglary is subjecting to a review by senior officers under Operation Themis to ensure every investigative opportunity is explored.

“We also advise the public through social media and our campaigning on the best efforts to prevent burglaries happening.

“There is a focus on the issue during the festive season as well – to aim to prevent burglars from exploiting this happy time of year.

“Some of the measures we suggest may seem obvious but burglars and thieves are often opportunistic and one slip of the mind could give them the chance they are after to steal from you.”

Burglaries at homes across Cumbria are often spontaneous crimes carried out by thieves trying door handles or reaching in through open windows.

Det Supt Hussey added: “Simple steps such as locking doors, not leaving out-of-sight windows open and not leaving valuable possessions in view of potential burglars can be effective in preventing incidents.

“We appreciate energy costs are high, but please consider keeping a visible light or lamp on if you are out.

“We would also encourage you to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity you witness.

“By reporting information, this not only helps inform us of potential criminal behaviour but it can lead to robust action being taken and offenders being brought to justice.”

Nationally, burglary rates were at their highest in November, with an average of 31,713 being committed in the UK.

The English capital experiences the greatest rate of crime in November with an average of 116.11 offences per 1,000 people. Outside of London, Cleveland Police see the highest crime rates in November, with the hilly region of Yorkshire experiencing an average of 12.8 crimes per 1,000 in this calendar month.

December sees the highest rates of theft from the person, suggesting that pickpockets take opportunity throughout the festive season. 

Some simple measures to stop burglars

  • Ensure your house is secure, preventing someone entering when you are busy elsewhere in the house or garden.
  • Lock doors and windows before you go out. Remove keys from locks and keep out of reach of windows and doors.
  • Consider installing security cameras.
  • Leave a light on in a room and draw curtains if you go out at night.
  • Consider fitting a burglar alarm, checking regularly to ensure they work.