Winter remains the peak season for burglaries across the UK, with a staggering 61,005 break-ins recorded between December and February 2024 – more than any other period throughout the year.
January poses the greatest risk for homeowners, as longer, darker evenings combined with freshly unwrapped Christmas presents make properties particularly tempting targets for thieves.
Despite the growing popularity of accessible security technology such as video doorbells and CCTV systems, many households are still neglecting basic precautions like fitting better locks, improving outdoor lighting, or simply keeping valuable items hidden from view.
According to new research by Swift Direct Blinds, several communities are demonstrating a worrying lack of concern about protecting their homes.
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Nottingham is the "least vigilant" UK area, with fewer than one search per 100 residents for home security.
Cambridge is not far behind, recording 1.5 searches per 100 people, with Brighton ranking third lowest.
The research also revealed a "surprising lack of concern" from larger northern cities, with Manchester recording just 2.89 searches per 100 people, while Liverpool managed only 4.43 – both lagging well behind smaller towns when it comes to security awareness.
Winter warning: 61,005 break-ins were recorded between December and February 2024
| PEXELSOn the flip side, Bedford topped the list as the UK's "most vigilant" area. "With 17.07 searches per 100 people for home security last year, Bedford scored 89.15 out of 100 in our dataset, more than six times higher than the lowest-ranked town," said interiors expert Kate O'Brien.
Bolton claimed second place with 16.7 searches per 100 residents and a score of 87.61, while fellow Greater Manchester town Rochdale completed the top three with 13.72 searches per 100 people.
Evidently, smaller northern towns are leading the way when it comes to taking home protection seriously.
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Nottingham is the 'least vigilant' area in the UK when it comes to home security
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For those looking to boost their home's security in the lead-up to Christmas, Ms O'Brien shared some practical advice.
"To keep your home as safe as possible, make sure you minimise the risk of break-ins with lockable windows and secure, sturdy doors," she advised.
While gadgets like video doorbells and CCTV are brilliant for keeping an eye on things, physical barriers remain essential to stop intruders from bypassing these systems entirely.
Shutters and blinds can also play a "key role" by blocking potential burglars from scoping out your home and preventing access to entry points – a simple but effective way to keep prying eyes at bay.
Looking for more ways to burglar-proof your property? Simple home checks will deter wannabe intruders.
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